Model S - Hitch discussion

[Tessier]

There is an article behind the picture at autoblog green too if your interested.

http://green.autoblog.com/2012/04/27/model-x-will-have-excellent-towing-capability-despite-photo-mo/

 

[doug]

There is no way to know how hard it will be until I get my Model S and have a chance to remove the rear undertray and look underneath it.

Here's the view under an Alpha:

 

[richkae]

Ideally we could use an existing attachment point under the car that isn't carrying something critical like the suspension...

I am worried that they will add a tow loop like this to the rear bumper:

Instead of tow hooks like this that bolt on to the bottom of the car like the Prius has:

Prius Hitch-mounted Bike Rack Page

The bolt on tow hooks on the bottom of the car made adding the hitch to the Prius trivial.

 

[Lloyd]

All of this is a little more difficult with an aluminum frame. What we are used to putting a lot of force onto in a steel framed car need to be engineered a little more.

 

[jkirkebo]

Just One Hitch

Then, Tesla doesn't need to build them without hitches:

I'd wish they didn't, I really want a hitch on my Model S.

 

[kcveins]

I'd wish they didn't, I really want a hitch on my Model S.

Same here - would be nice to be able to put on a bike rack.

 

[jkirkebo]

Same here - would be nice to be able to put on a bike rack.

I'm not worried about my bike, it should fit in the trunk (with the seats down) according to Elon. It's my trailer that doesn't go well with the S at this point...
http://www.tysse.no/index.php?product=1&kategori=Varehenger&showproduct=16

 

[kcveins]

Do both back seats fold back? I thought only one side did. Should have plenty of room for my bike then....

 

[jerry33]

Do both back seats fold back? I thought only one side did. Should have plenty of room for my bike then....

It's a 60/40 split. You can fold back either or both.

 

[kcveins]

It's a 60/40 split. You can fold back either or both.

Thanks

 

[mikevbf]

Same here - would be nice to be able to put on a bike rack.

I know at one point some early production cars had an attachment for something that looked like it would accommodate roof rack bars. Did these attachments make it to founders or test drive cars?

 

[AndyM]

I know at one point some early production cars had an attachment for something that looked like it would accommodate roof rack bars. Did these attachments make it to founders or test drive cars?

The Get Amped cars with pano roof all have small openings that reveal mount points for a roof rack. I was told by a rep in the store that this was part of the pano roof design.

 

[mikevbf]

The Get Amped cars with pano roof all have small openings that reveal mount points for a roof rack. I was told by a rep in the store that this was part of the pano roof design.

How about for non pano roof?

 

[AndyM]

How about for non pano roof?

They were not sure... it could be an option. I'd call your rep to make sure.

 

[mikevbf]

They were not sure... it could be an option. I'd call your rep to make sure.

Updated FAQ with hitch info. Now updating on roof rack. :smile:

Welcome to Google Docs

 

[artsci]

Same thing with the Volt. I'm sure some clever outfit will figure out a way. I'd put my money on these guys: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JWFZkzWf9tI&feature=player_detailpage

I wouldn't be surprised to see an aftermarket hitch available eventually. It didn't take long for one to be made for the Leaf, so it's possible one will appear for the S.

 

[Torklift Central]

We are eagerly awaiting our turn with a Tesla Model S. We just finished the Tesla Roadster hitch. It looks fantastic. We were able to keep the weight of the hitch down to a minimum, and also the hitch is virtually undetectable when not in use. It is 100% frame mounted, no drill, and no welding required. We also supply stainless steel hardware for installation.

The youtube video will be up later this evening if you want to take a look.


Also,

We do have a volunteer lined up here in Washington for the Model S trailer hitch. They will not be receiving their car until sometime in September. We are hoping to be able to use a Model S before the end of August.

If anyone on the forums lives in the Seattle Washington area, we have a deal for you. The first person to bring us their vehicle and leave it with us for 5 business days, will receive a free ecohitch for their model S. We will use their vehicle for all instructions, and video production as well ( license plates removed.) This lucky Model S owner will literally be the very first person in the world to have a production style Ecohitch for their Model S.


If you already have taken delivery of your Model S, and live in the Kent Washington area and are wanting to take us up on this offer. Please DM me or reply on this thread.

Once we have the Model S hitch finished, it will go into production and be ready for shipment. We will be creating a model for each trailer hitch size. 2" and 1.25" sizes.





Thanks,

Torklift Central

 

[brianman]

bring us their vehicle and leave it with us for 5 business days, will receive a free ecohitch for their model S.

Too long for me.

 

[Discoducky]

Too long for me.

Same here, but I'll gladly buy one from you :biggrin:

 

[brianman]

Same here, but I'll gladly buy one from you :biggrin:

You motivate up a good question...

@Torklift Central - Any estimate on the pricing?