Overview
The 2025 GMC Hummer EV Pickup is a bold reimagining of the iconic Hummer brand, now reborn as an all-electric supertruck. Positioned in the full-size electric pickup segment, it combines jaw-dropping performance with advanced technology, making it a standout competitor against the Ford F-150 Lightning, Rivian R1T, and Tesla Cybertruck. Known for its massive size, up to 1,000 horsepower, and off-road prowess, the Hummer EV is not just a toy for thrill-seekers—it’s also a capable towing machine. With a maximum towing capacity of 12,100 pounds when properly equipped, it outpaces many rivals in its class, offering serious utility for work and play. This blog dives into the Hummer EV’s towing capabilities, configurations, and features, providing insights for buyers considering this electric beast for towing needs.
Towing Capacity by Configuration
The 2025 GMC Hummer EV Pickup offers two primary trim levels—2X and 3X—with varying towing capacities based on powertrain, battery size, and optional packages. The truck comes with either a dual-motor (570 hp) or tri-motor (up to 1,000 hp) configuration, powered by GM’s Ultium battery platform (20-module or 24-module packs). All models feature standard all-wheel drive (AWD) via the e4WD system. Below is a breakdown of towing capacities by configuration:
| Trim | Powertrain | Battery | Towing Capacity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2X | Dual-motor (570 hp) | 20-module | 12,100 lbs | Max towing capacity; no Extreme Off-Road Package |
| 2X | Dual-motor (635 hp with WTF mode) | 20-module | 12,100 lbs | Includes Watts to Freedom (WTF) mode |
| 3X | Tri-motor (830–1,000 hp) | 20-module | 10,600 lbs | Standard configuration |
| 3X | Tri-motor (830–1,000 hp) | 24-module | 10,600 lbs | Extended-range battery |
| 3X | Tri-motor (830–1,000 hp) | 20-module | 7,500 lbs | With Extreme Off-Road Package |
| Carbon Fiber Edition | Tri-motor (1,160 hp) | 24-module | 10,600 lbs | Special edition with performance upgrades |
Key Points:
- The dual-motor 2X trim achieves the highest towing capacity of 12,100 pounds, surpassing the Ford F-150 Lightning (10,000 lbs) and Rivian R1T (11,000 lbs).
- The tri-motor 3X trim sees a reduced towing capacity (7,500–10,600 lbs), particularly when equipped with the Extreme Off-Road Package, due to added weight from 35-inch mud-terrain tires and reinforced axles.
- The Carbon Fiber Edition, based on the 3X, maintains a 10,600-pound towing capacity despite its enhanced 1,160 hp output.
For buyers seeking maximum towing capability, the 2X trim with the 20-module battery and standard wheels is the optimal choice. Those prioritizing off-road performance may opt for the 3X with the Extreme Off-Road Package, but they’ll sacrifice some towing capacity.
What Affects Towing Capacity?
Several factors influence the Hummer EV’s towing performance, blending traditional truck engineering with cutting-edge electric vehicle technology:
- Powertrain Specs: The dual-motor 2X produces 570 hp (or 635 hp with WTF mode) and up to 7,400 lb-ft of wheel torque, while the tri-motor 3X delivers 830–1,000 hp (up to 1,160 hp in the Carbon Fiber Edition) and 11,500 lb-ft of torque. The instant torque of electric motors ensures effortless acceleration, even with heavy loads. However, the tri-motor setup’s added weight reduces towing capacity compared to the lighter dual-motor configuration.
- Transmission and Drivetrain: The Hummer EV uses a single-speed transmission paired with GM’s Ultium Drive system, optimized for smooth power delivery. The e4WD system with torque vectoring enhances traction, crucial for towing on varied terrain.
- Battery and Range Impact: The 20-module battery (180 kWh usable) offers a range of 312–318 miles, while the 24-module pack (205 kWh) extends it to 381 miles. Towing significantly reduces range—tests show a drop to ~140 miles when towing a 6,100-pound trailer at 70 mph.
- Suspension and Chassis: The Hummer EV’s adaptive air suspension adjusts ride height up to 6 inches (Extract Mode) for off-road clearance but stiffens for towing stability. The robust chassis and rear-wheel steering (with CrabWalk for low-speed maneuverability) improve handling when towing. However, the truck’s 9,640-pound curb weight can make it feel unwieldy with heavy loads.
- Braking System: The Hummer EV’s regenerative braking aids in slowing heavy loads, but its 211-foot stopping distance from 70 mph indicates limitations in high-stress scenarios. Integrated trailer brake controllers enhance control.
- Smart Towing Tech: The Hummer EV is equipped with advanced towing features:
- Super Cruise: GM’s hands-free driving system supports trailering, adjusting speed and lane position on compatible highways.
- Trailer Side Blind-Spot Monitoring: Enhances safety by detecting vehicles in adjacent lanes.
- Surround Vision Cameras: Multiple camera angles, including underbody views, simplify hitching and maneuvering.
- Tow Mode: Optimizes suspension and power delivery for stability, though some testers note it could be stiffer to reduce body motion.
These features make the Hummer EV a versatile towing platform, but its range reduction and weight are notable considerations.
Payload Capacity and Its Impact
Payload capacity refers to the maximum weight a vehicle can carry in its bed and cabin, including passengers and cargo. For the Hummer EV, payload ratings vary by trim:
- 2X Trim: Up to 1,485 pounds.
- 3X Trim: Up to 1,300 pounds.
- Carbon Fiber Edition: Approximately 1,300 pounds (assumed similar to 3X).
The Hummer EV’s 5-foot bed and 11.3-cubic-foot frunk provide decent cargo space, but its payload is modest compared to gas-powered heavy-duty trucks like the Ford F-250 (up to 4,323 lbs). The truck’s 9,640-pound curb weight limits payload, as the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) caps the total weight (vehicle + payload + trailer tongue weight).
When towing, the trailer’s tongue weight (typically 10–15% of trailer weight) counts toward the payload. For example, towing a 12,100-pound trailer requires ~1,210–1,815 pounds of payload, exceeding the 3X’s capacity and pushing the 2X to its limit. Buyers must balance payload and towing needs, ensuring the combined weight stays within the gross combination weight rating (GCWR).
Insights From the Web and Social Media
Real-world towing impressions and expert commentary highlight the Hummer EV’s strengths and limitations:
- The Fast Lane Truck tested the 2023 Hummer EV 3X towing a 7,500-pound trailer on the Ike Gauntlet, a grueling mountain pass. The truck earned a 4.3/5 rating for stability and power, recapturing 9 kW of energy via regenerative braking over 8 miles. However, testers noted the need for a stiffer Tow Mode to reduce body motion.
- Destination EV Travel towed a 5,000-pound trailer for 100 miles across mixed roads, reporting significant range reduction but praising the truck’s power and ease of use.
- On X, users like @EVTruckFan (2025) noted the 2X’s 12,100-pound towing capacity “blows away the competition,” but others, like @AutoCritic22, criticized the range drop when towing, calling it “a dealbreaker for long hauls.”
- MotorTrend emphasized the 2X’s superior towing and payload over the 3X, recommending it for utility-focused buyers. They also praised the King Crab mode (available via OTA update) for enhancing low-speed towing maneuverability.
Common praises include the Hummer EV’s effortless acceleration and advanced tech, while criticisms focus on range loss and the truck’s massive weight affecting handling.
Best Configurations for Towing
For light-duty towing (e.g., small trailers, boats, or ATVs up to 7,500 lbs):
- Choose the 3X trim with the Extreme Off-Road Package for its off-road capability and sufficient towing capacity. The 20-module battery balances range and cost.
- Essential features: Super Cruise, trailer brake controller, and surround vision cameras.
For heavy-duty towing (e.g., large campers or equipment up to 12,100 lbs):
- Opt for the 2X trim with the 20-module battery and standard wheels to maximize towing capacity. Avoid the Extreme Off-Road Package, as it reduces towing to 7,500 lbs.
- Must-have options: ProGrade Trailering System, Tow Mode, and trailer side blind-spot monitoring.
Safety Tips:
- Always check the Hummer EV’s official tow chart and GVWR/GCWR limits.
- Distribute trailer weight properly (60% forward of the axle) to prevent sway.
- Use a weight-distributing hitch for heavy loads to improve stability.
- Monitor battery range closely, as towing can halve the estimated range.
Conclusion
The 2025 GMC Hummer EV Pickup redefines electric towing with a maximum capacity of 12,100 pounds, outclassing rivals like the Ford F-150 Lightning and Rivian R1T. Its dual-motor 2X trim is the go-to for heavy-duty towing, while the 3X offers versatility for off-road enthusiasts. Advanced features like Super Cruise, surround vision cameras, and torque vectoring make towing safer and more manageable, though the significant range reduction (down to ~140 miles when towing) and hefty curb weight are notable drawbacks. For buyers needing a truck for occasional heavy towing or family adventures with a camper, the Hummer EV delivers unmatched power and tech. However, those requiring long-range towing or higher payload may find traditional gas-powered trucks more practical. Visit Antich Auto Eureka to test-drive the Hummer EV and explore its towing prowess firsthand.
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FAQ
How much can the EV Hummer tow?The HUMMER EV Pickup Truck’s maximum towing capacity is 12,000 pounds, and the Sierra EV has a maximum towing capacity of 10,000 pounds. It takes a lot of muscle to tow these kinds of numbers. The HUMMER EV 3X Pickup Truck has up to 11,500 pound-feet of torque to work with. That’s more torque than anyone can imagine.
Can a Hummer EV pull a 5th wheel?They can also accept standard fifth-wheel trailers using adapters.
What is the difference between 2X and 3X Hummer EV?The HUMMER EV 2X has an estimated range of up to 303 miles on a full charge, while the 3X provides an extended range of up to 314 miles, thanks to its tri-motor configuration.
Which Hummer EV has 1000 HP?
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Car and Driverhttps://www.caranddriver.com2025 GMC Hummer EV Pickup Review, Pricing, and SpecsRepresenting five tons of supertruck fun, the 2025 GMC Hummer EV Pickup is a massive, 1000-horsepower beast unlike anything else on the market. … The Hummer E…
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Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.orgGMC Hummer EV – WikipediaEdition 1 has three electric motors with 1,000 hp (750 kW; 1,000 PS), 329 miles (529 km) of range, and is fitted with the Extreme Off-Road package, which includ…
Reference
https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a40896618/ev-pickups-towing-test-hummer-rivian-lightning/
https://www.valleygmc.com/towing-with-the-gmc-hummer-ev-and-sierra-ev/
