Inquiry Regarding the Towing Capacity of the 2024 P550E Model

[martvolviak]

Greetings,

Contrary to the information provided on the Land Rover website, the towing capacity of the 2024 P550e, as verified by my local dealer, is 6,613 lbs, rather than the stated 8,200 lbs.

Based on my observation, it seems that the P550e ICE engine has similarities with the P400 engine. In light of this, I am curious to ascertain if the tow capability of the P550e matches that of the P400, which stands at 7,716 lbs. I would appreciate any insights on this matter.

According to a source from a former age, it has been noted that the internal combustion engine (ICE) just functions in relation to the front axle. Additionally, it has been suggested that the absence of all-wheel drive (AWD) when the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) battery is depleted may have a detrimental effect on the vehicle's towing capacity. I am inquiring about the safety of towing up to 7,716 pounds when the battery is charged and the vehicle is in Hybrid mode.

The typical weight capacity of my caravan is 6,400 pounds, and if the actual capacity is at 6,613 pounds, this proximity raises concerns. Nevertheless, if the documented towing capacity in hybrid mode exceeds 7,716, then I should have no issues.

Does anybody have any opinions or insights about this matter? I have the opportunity to get a P550E model in April 2024 or a P530 model in February. However, I am required to make a prompt choice. Regrettably, the assistance provided by the Land Rover representative has been limited due to the scarcity of information available on this particular model at now. Perhaps those in the United Kingdom who had early access to this particular model might perhaps provide valuable insights?

[ByteStorm]

The weight of a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) is more in comparison to a conventional gasoline-powered vehicle with an equivalent engine.

[martvolviak]

Indeed, such assertion is accurate. As per the official Land Rover website

The curb weight of the P400 is recorded as 5,240 pounds, whereas the P550e has a higher curb weight of 6,025 pounds, indicating an additional 785 pounds for the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) variant. In contrast, the P550e exhibits an additional 147 horsepower.

I am interested in determining if the tow capability of the P550e, which is 6,613 lbs, is mostly applicable when the PHEV battery is completely depleted.

The intended scenario is a drive spanning around 500 miles, characterised by mostly flat terrain for the first 300 miles, followed by a mountainous landscape for the last 200 miles. Utilising 97% of the towing capacity of the P550e would result in a suboptimal experience, unless there exists further capacity in hybrid mode. The intended objective is to use the saving mode throughout the first portion of the trip, pause for refuelling, and thereafter switch to Hybrid mode for the latter part of the excursion.

Is there anybody who has any firsthand experience with any of the previous year models of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs)? I am curious to know if the use of Hybrid mode will enable the regulation of battery consumption to align with the gasoline tank capacity. In the context of a hybrid vehicle, it is of interest to determine the distribution of gasoline and battery charge levels when both are at their maximum capacity. Specifically, the question arises as to whether the fuel and battery levels would be evenly split at around 50% each, or whether the battery would be used more extensively, perhaps depleting it entirely after 100 miles of hybrid operation.

Does that statement possess logical coherence?

[ForumGuru]

The primary factor influencing the performance of PHEVs is not necessarily engine power, but rather the gross weight, which is significantly impacted by the presence of a hefty battery.

[martvolviak]

Indeed, it is evident that plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) possess a greater weight compared to their counterparts. In light of the aforementioned, it is worth noting that the P400 exhibits a towing capacity of 7,716, whilst the P530, which has a greater weight, showcases a towing capacity of 8,200 as a result of its enlarged engine size.

The P550e has a weight increase of 785 lbs in comparison to the P400, but its towing capacity is reduced by 1,103 lbs.

[ByteStorm]

The P510e electric vehicle experiences complete battery depletion in Hybrid mode after travelling a distance of 100 km on the highway. The estimate of 100 miles seemed too optimistic. The answer to this question is contingent upon the average speed at which one travels on a roadway. It is possible to achieve optimal fuel efficiency in a large truck by using a combination of techniques, including maintaining a consistent and controlled driving style, capitalising on the aerodynamic benefits of slipstreaming, and minimising energy use by turning off non-essential electrical components such as lights, music, and air conditioning.

There is no direct correspondence or equivalence, such as a 50/50 split, in terms of power distribution between the battery and other sources in hybrid vehicles. However, the battery is used to its fullest extent when cruising in order to operate in hybrid mode. The prioritisation of fuel efficiency is of significant importance in Hybrid mode. The save mode may be seen as a mode that only relies on fuel as its energy source, ensuring that the battery remains above the appropriate level while still allowing for a little amount of kinetic energy recovery system (KERS) charging.

[martvolviak]

Thank you for providing this valuable information and comments, which aligns precisely with the kind of knowledge I sought. It is really logical to prioritise gasoline savings. However, I was expecting to find a solution that aligns with my specific use case. It seems that the towing capability is solely dependent on the internal combustion engine's performance. Otherwise, it would be necessary to provide a significant caveat on the change in towing capability within a range of 25-50 miles.

[WiseSage]

Based on my comprehension, the operational mechanism of this process may be described as follows.
In instances when a battery is accessible, the system utilises both the battery and the fully electric motor. However, if the power demand exceeds the capacity of the tiny electric motor, the internal combustion engine (ICE) is activated.
Upon the exhaustion of the battery, the internal combustion engine (ICE) assumes the responsibility of supplying power to the electric motor as well. One's preference for 100+ horsepower may be diminished in the event of a hybrid battery failure.

[drummer]

One should exercise caution while submerging a Hybrid vehicle, particularly in salt water, since there exists a potential risk of flooding, electrical short-circuiting, and subsequent combustion.

[martvolviak]

The water present near the boat ramp mostly consists of fresh water and does not exhibit significant wetness. According to Land Rover's claims, the hybrids are equipped with wade sensors and possess the same wading depth capability, suggesting that they should perform well in such conditions. However, it is comprehensible that there may be some reluctance.

Regrettably, I am inclined to believe that I will be unable to go with the P550e option. The prospect of pulling a load over 6,400 pounds, while being constrained by a tow limit of 6,611 pounds, seems to be uncomfortably near to my personal threshold. Unless there is corroborating evidence attesting to the Range Rover's capacity to tow at its maximum limit without encountering any complications across mountainous terrains and extended journeys.

I am interested in acquiring an all-electric range for my everyday use; nevertheless, it is imperative that I get a vehicle capable of towing securely and without complications.

[martvolviak]

Thank you for your response. I am uncertain about the mechanics of the process, but it seems to be akin to a mystical phenomenon. In what manner can the internal combustion engine (ICE) effectively provide power to the electric motor without compromising the ICE's output?

It seems that a certain degree of compromise is necessary in this context. It is plausible that the reduction in horsepower resulting from the use of an electric engine may not be as substantial as the entire 150 horsepower, but some degree of power loss may be expected. Otherwise, the generation of energy would be occurring without any apparent source.

Given my little knowledge on this subject matter, it seems plausible that your assertion is correct. It is implausible that there is no decrease in horsepower (HP) while supplying electricity to the electric motor in an internal combustion engine (ICE).

[ByteStorm]

I did not anticipate that the Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) would be responsible for charging the battery, as is the case with our P300e model. The process of 'charging' occurs via the use of regenerative braking and coasting, as well as by connecting the vehicle to an external power source.

[drummer]

To provide clarification, it should be noted that the process in question does not include recharging the hybrid battery. However, it does contribute to the functioning of the electric motor. I am unable to recall the whole elucidation; yet, it does possess a functional effect. In the event of non-compliance, a decrease in power output exceeding 100 horsepower would be seen.