The Volvo EX60, Volvo’s groundbreaking 2026-2027 midsize electric SUV, redefines EV towing with capacities up to 5,291 lbs (2,400 kg) braked competitive with gas SUVs like the Toyota Highlander while delivering 300-400 miles of range, 800V ultra-fast charging, and top-tier safety. Starting around $60,000 well-equipped, it’s perfect for American families towing boats, campers, or trailers across highways from California coasts to Rocky Mountain campsites. This expanded guide covers U.S.-specific specs, setup, laws, real-world tips, costs, and maintenance for confident, efficient towing.
U.S.-Market Towing Specifications
Volvo optimizes the EX60’s SPA3 EV platform with structural battery integration and megacastings for strength without excess weight (4,650-5,150 lbs curb). Capacities vary by trim confirm via window sticker or Volvo’s configurator.
- P6 RWD (369 hp, 83-95 kWh battery): 4,409 lbs braked / 1,653 lbs unbraked. Suited for small campers, ATVs, or personal watercraft.
- P10 AWD (503 hp, 95-107 kWh): 5,291 lbs braked / 1,653 lbs unbraked. Handles mid-size boats (e.g., 18-ft bass boat) or pop-up trailers.
- P12 AWD (670 hp Performance, 112 kWh): 5,291 lbs braked / 1,653 lbs unbraked. Tops out for family caravans or horse trailers.
Standard U.S. limits:
- GVWR: 5,840-6,199 lbs.
- GCWR (Gross Combined): ~10,000-11,000 lbs (vehicle + trailer).
- Tongue Weight: 500-600 lbs (10-15% of trailer GVWR).
- Roof Load: 220 lbs dynamic.
| Powertrain | Braked Tow (lbs/kg) | Unbraked (lbs/kg) | Battery | 0-60 mph | Base MSRP Est. | Best For U.S. Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| P6 RWD | 4,409 / 2,000 | 1,653 / 750 | 83-95 kWh | 5.7 sec | $60,000 | Teardrop trailers, jet skis |
| P10 AWD | 5,291 / 2,400 | 1,653 / 750 | 95-107 kWh | 4.4 sec | $70,000 | Bass boats, pop-ups |
| P12 AWD | 5,291 / 2,400 | 1,653 / 750 | 112 kWh | 3.8 sec | $80,000+ | Travel trailers, utility |
Pricing reflects 2026 estimates; federal EV tax credit ($7,500) may apply if U.S.-assembled.
Pre-Towing Preparation: U.S. Edition
Compliance with FMCSA/DOT rules starts here overloads mean $500+ fines per state.
- Enable Tow Mode: 11.2-inch Android Automotive screen (Vehicle > Towing). Boosts air suspension 1.5-3 inches, calibrates AWD torque, enables trailer sway assist, and optimizes one-pedal regen.
- Hitch Installation: Class III 2-inch receiver ($300-800 parts). Professional install: $500-1,200 at U-Haul/Volvo dealers. Torque to 110-130 ft-lbs; annual inspection recommended.
- Weigh Station Check: CAT scales ($12-16) confirm axle weights. Payload leftover: 800-1,200 lbs post-tongue for 5 passengers + gear.
- Trailer Wiring: 7-pin RV blade standard (brakes, backup, power). EX60’s integrated controller supports electric/hydraulic.
- Battery Conditioning: App preheat to 77°F (25°C) 45 mins pre-departure critical for Midwest winters.
Gather: gloves, wheel chocks, torque wrench, TPMS for trailer.
Step-by-Step Hitching and Loading
- Level ground, chocks on.
- Back precisely using 360° cameras with dynamic trailer tracing (calibrate via app).
- Drop trailer coupler over greased 2-inch ball; secure with latch/pin.
- Cross-connect chains; plug 7-pin test all functions (EX60 alerts faults).
- Gauge tongue (e.g., Sherline tool, $40): 10-15% rule (500 lbs on 4,000-lb trailer).
- Load 60% weight forward of axle; even side-to-side.
Test: 0.5-mile empty loop at 20 mph.
Highway Towing Best Practices Across America
- Speed: 65-70 mph max (per most state laws); Pilot Assist II adapts to trailer length.
- Mirrors: Clip-on convex ($50/pair) for sailboats; factory power-folds.
- Braking Distance: Doubles loaded regen provides 70% stopping power.
- Passing: Extra lane discipline; crosswind assist counters semis.
| U.S. Route Example | Max Speed | Range Penalty | Charging Stops |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-80 (Plains) | 70 mph | -30% | Electrify America every 150 mi |
| I-70 (Rockies) | 55 mph | -50% | Tesla Supercharger (NACS native) |
| I-10 (Southwest) | 75 mph | -40% | 350 kW stations (10-80% in 18 min) |
Range: 310-400 miles unloaded; 180-250 miles towing 4,000 lbs. Add 173 miles in 10 min at 400 kW.
Essential U.S. Accessories and Costs
- Curt Class III Hitch: $650 + $800 install.
- Thule Roof Bike Rack: $800 (4 bikes, 140 lbs).
- Equal-i-zer Weight Distribution: $650 (over 5,000 lbs).
- TireMinder TPMS: $300 (monitors trailer).
- Extended Warranty: $2,500/5 years towing coverage.
Annual upkeep: $400 extra tires/brakes.
U.S. Legal and Insurance Notes
- Registration: Trailer plates via DMV; CDL not needed under 10,000 GCWR.
- States: CA/TX require annual safety checks; weight certs for >3,000 lbs.
- Insurance: Add towing rider ($200/year); Geico/State Farm cover up to rated.
- Winter: Chains mandatory in CO/WY Dec-Apr ($150/set).
Battery Management and Efficiency Hacks
98-112 kWh packs heat under load limit to 80% charge when towing. V2L 3.6 kW outlet runs RV AC. Eco mode + low regen preserves 20% range.
Post-Trip Maintenance Schedule
- Wash chassis ($50 self-serve).
- Torque hitch bolts (weekly first month).
- Rotate tires at 5,000 mi ($150).
- Brake fluid flush yearly ($200).
- Software update for sway algorithms (free OTA).
Real-World U.S. Owner Insights
Forums praise stability vs. Model Y (3,500 lbs limit); outperforms XC60 PHEV (3,500 lbs). Tailgaters note luxurious cabin holds value resale ~70% after 3 years.
Total Cost of Ownership Savings
vs. Gas SUV: $3,000/year fuel (15,000 mi towing). Hitch package: $1,800 upfront. ROI via EV rebates: 2 years.
With NACS Tesla access and 5-star NHTSA towing scores, the EX60 empowers cross-country hauls luxury utility for the electrified age.
Volvo EX60 Towing Capacity FAQs: U.S. Driver Essentials
Frequently asked questions on the 2026-2027 Volvo EX60’s towing capabilities, specs, setup, and practical tips tailored for American roads, laws, and charging networks.
What is the EX60’s maximum towing capacity in the U.S.?
Up to 4,500 lbs (2,040 kg) braked for P10/P12 AWD models and 3,600 lbs (1,633 kg) for P6 RWD—unbraked limit is 1,653 lbs across all. Confirm via VIN as software updates or trims may adjust.
Which EX60 trim tows the most weight?
P10 and P12 AWD dual-motor variants hit 4,500 lbs with their 95-112 kWh batteries and torque vectoring. P6 RWD caps at 3,600 lbs, ideal for lighter loads like ATVs.
Does towing capacity include tongue weight, and what’s the limit?
Yes—tongue (nose) weight maxes at 500-600 lbs (10-15% of trailer GVWR). Exceeding risks rear squat, sway, or voided warranty.
How do I activate towing mode on the EX60?
Via the 11.2-inch touchscreen: Vehicle Settings > Towing. It raises air suspension 1.5-3 inches, firms dampers, enables sway control, and tweaks regen for trailer stability.
| Trim | Braked Tow (lbs) | Tongue Max (lbs) | GCWR Est. (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| P6 RWD | 3,600 | 360-540 | 10,000 |
| P10 AWD | 4,500 | 450-675 | 11,000 |
| P12 AWD | 4,500 | 450-675 | 11,000 |
What hitch type fits the EX60 for U.S. towing?
Class III 2-inch receiver standard Curt or Draw-Tite ($300-650 parts + $500-1,200 install). Factory retractable option adds $1,000-1,500.
How does towing affect the EX60’s 300-400 mile range?
30-60% drop: 250 miles unloaded trailer, 180-220 miles at 4,000 lbs. Plan Electrify America/Tesla Superchargers (NACS native) every 150 miles; 400 kW adds 173 miles in 10 min.
Is a weight distribution hitch required?
Recommended over 3,500 lbs for stability Equal-i-zer ($650) evens load. EX60’s air suspension helps but doesn’t replace it on heavy trailers.
What wiring harness for U.S. trailers?
7-pin RV blade plug (brakes, lights, power) integrated controller supports electric over hydraulic. Tester kit ($20) verifies before highways.
Can I tow a boat or camper legally across states?
Yes under 10,000 lbs GCWR (no CDL). Check DMV: CA/TX need trailer brakes >1,500 lbs; annual inspections in 15 states. Fines $100-1,000 for overloads.
How to hitch up using EX60 cameras?
360° view with dynamic trailer tracing calibrate in app, back straight, drop coupler on greased 2-inch ball. Cross chains, test functions.
Does towing wear brakes or tires faster?
Yes regen handles 70%, but friction pads/tires wear 1.5-2x. Rotate tires every 5,000 miles ($150); flush fluid yearly ($200).
Winter towing tips for U.S. drivers?
Precondition battery to 77°F; chains mandatory in CO/WY ($150/set). Limit speed 55 mph; high mode for snow.
What’s the payload left after max towing?
800-1,200 lbs for 5 passengers + gear (GVWR 5,840-6,199 lbs). Weigh at CAT scales ($12-16) to avoid tickets.
Does insurance cover towing on the EX60?
Add rider ($150-300/year via Geico/Progressive) covers up to rated capacity. Liability jumps 20% loaded.
Can the EX60 power my campsite (V2L)?
Yes 3.6 kW outlet runs RV fridge/AC. Bi-directional ready for future grid return.
Post-tow maintenance checklist?
Wash chassis, torque hitch (110 ft-lbs), check sway sensors, full charge + OBD scan. Expect $400/year extra upkeep.
How does EX60 towing compare to rivals?
Beats Tesla Model Y (3,500 lbs), matches Hyundai Ioniq 9; Polestar 3 edges at 4,850 lbs. 5-star NHTSA stability.