Tow Like a Truck: Why the EV9 AWD's 5,000 lb Capacity Surprises Every Boat Owner

The 2026 Kia EV9 AWD tows 5,000 lbs when properly equipped - more than most pickup trucks managed just a decade ago. This three-row electric SUV pulls fishing boats, ski boats, and even larger pontoon boats up Kawartha Lakes boat ramps with the kind of effortless power that leaves traditional SUV owners watching in amazement.

Boat owners around Lindsay typically assume they need a truck or large gasoline SUV for reliable towing. The EV9 changes this assumption completely. Electric motors deliver peak torque instantly, providing the steady, consistent power that boat launching demands without the engine strain, transmission hunting, or overheating concerns that plague conventional towing vehicles.

The 99.8 kWh battery pack supplies enough energy for extended towing sessions, while the dual motor AWD system distributes power intelligently to maintain control during challenging launch conditions. This isn't just adequate towing capability - it's superior performance that transforms the boat launching experience.

Electric Towing Advantages Over Gasoline Engines

Electric towing feels fundamentally different from gasoline engine towing. Traditional engines struggle during boat launches because they must overcome static friction while climbing steep ramps at low speeds. This creates the worst possible conditions for internal combustion engines - high load, low RPM operation that generates excessive heat and stress.

The EV9's electric motors excel precisely where gasoline engines struggle most:

• Maximum torque at 0 RPM - provides strongest pulling power from a complete stop
• Consistent power delivery - no torque drop-off during sustained pulling
• Silent operation - eliminates engine noise that can spook fish or disturb other boaters
• No overheating risk - maintains full power regardless of operating temperature

Boat ramp situations that stress gasoline engines - multiple launch attempts, steep grades, slippery surfaces - become routine operations for the EV9's electric drivetrain.

Real Towing Capacity for Popular Boat Types

The 5,000 lb capacity handles most boats that Kawartha Lakes families actually own and operate. This includes dry weight plus trailer, fuel, gear, and safety equipment - the real-world numbers that matter during actual towing.

The EV9 tows these boats more smoothly than most truck-based vehicles. Electric motor torque delivery eliminates the jerky acceleration and deceleration cycles that can stress trailer hitches and boat tie-downs during transport.

AWD System Enhances Launch Performance

The EV9's dual motor AWD provides superior traction during boat launching compared to conventional mechanical systems. Each motor responds independently within milliseconds, automatically adjusting power distribution to maintain grip on wet, algae-covered boat ramps.

This electric AWD system delivers specific towing advantages:

• Independent front/rear motor control - optimizes traction for varying surface conditions
• Instant torque redistribution - prevents wheel spin before it affects trailer control
• Hill start assist - maintains position during steep ramp launches without rolling backward
• Regenerative braking - provides controlled descent while protecting brake components

Traditional AWD systems use mechanical transfer cases that can't respond as quickly to changing traction conditions. The EV9's electric system adjusts power distribution continuously, providing consistent control throughout the entire launching process.

Range Considerations for Towing

Towing reduces electric vehicle range, just as it increases fuel consumption in gasoline vehicles. The EV9's 451 km range (Land AWD) decreases to approximately 280-320 km when towing 4,000-5,000 lb loads, depending on terrain and driving conditions.

For typical Kawartha Lakes boat trips, this provides sufficient range for:

• Round trip to most area lakes - including Pigeon Lake, Sturgeon Lake, or Cameron Lake
• Local fishing excursions - plenty of range for day trips with charging at home
• Weekend cottage trips - manageable with destination charging or mid-trip stops

The key advantage lies in the EV9's 350kW fast charging capability. A 20-minute charging stop adds approximately 200 km of towing range, making longer boat trips practical with minimal delay.

Launching Experience That Impresses

Boat owners consistently report surprise at how smoothly the EV9 handles launch situations that challenge other vehicles. The instant torque delivery provides confident acceleration up steep ramps without the engine roar and transmission shifting that characterizes traditional towing vehicles.

The silent operation particularly appeals to early morning fishers who want to launch without disturbing sleeping cottage neighbours. The smooth, quiet acceleration also reduces stress on trailer components and boat tie-downs during transport.

Electric towing capability extends beyond just pulling power. The 110V outlet provides shore power for boat electronics, live wells, or charging devices without requiring a separate generator or marina hookup.

Transform your boat launching experience with electric towing capability that exceeds every expectation at Lindsay Kia, where you can test the EV9's impressive hauling power firsthand.

To learn more about the 2026 Kia EV9, visit Kia.ca