Towing hitch, why not on performance?

[kas81]

Reserved a Model 3 back in 2016 still not ordered yet, because I've been waiting for the towing hitch option. I discovered with joy today that it finally was available, but I'm a little disappointed that it's not on the performance model. Why is it so? I've literally been just clicks away from ordering the performance model. Only two things holding me back, lack of towing hitch and 20” wheels only…. I could possibly accept the “oversized” rims if I just could get the towing hitch

 

[TORQU3]

It’s probably related to the 20” wheels or even the oem tire load rating. I’ve seen similar adjustments made on other cars where the performance or sport edition had larger wheels. Otherwise everything is the same.

 

[diamond.g]

Reserved a Model 3 back in 2016 still not ordered yet, because I've been waiting for the towing hitch option. I discovered with joy today that it finally was available, but I'm a little disappointed that it's not on the performance model. Why is it so? I've literally been just clicks away from ordering the performance model. Only two things holding me back, lack of towing hitch and 20” wheels only…. I could possibly accept the “oversized” rims if I just could get the towing hitch

Something about the tires load rating.

EDIT: beaten by @TORQU3

 

[Uncle Paul]

Performance model also rides a little lower. Perhaps was unable to get approval from Governmental agencies for this model.

In the states, many of the highest performance versions of other manufacturers also do not come with tow hitches. (HellCat, Demon, Shelby, Ferrari, Lambo, etc.

 

[SSedan]

Good points so far.
Also the added power might over stress the chassis if used during towing.

Might even just be they don't want the warranty exposure of P and towing together.

 

[RKDauto]

I figured it was the 20" tires, lowered suspension, and warranty concerns. I am really disappointed and I was counting on the tow rating so I could receive the "tow mode" software and warranty coverage. Especially, since the first spy photo was a Performance Model 3 from last July.

https://electrek.co/2018/07/31/tesla-model-3-towing-capacity/

I was waiting to see if I can get the manufacturer blessing before I go rogue and buy an EcoHitch. I guess I will be going rogue and buying an EcoHitch since that I expect will be a better and cheaper solution than Tesla's version minus the "Tow Mode" software.

 

[nativespinner]

Well, I guess that it would probably rip the trailer apart lol

 

[thardie]

I only see Tesla selling the tow hitch in Europe - Anyone found anywhere in the US we can buy this?

 

[Legen---dary]

I only see Tesla selling the tow hitch in Europe - Anyone found anywhere in the US we can buy this?

I've not seen anywhere we can officially buy this in North America. I do recall hearing that the MY was observed to have a hitch cutout stamped in the bumper. What an insanely popular car that will be!

 

[timk225]

How often do you see Ferraris towing camper trailers? All right then.

 

[kas81]

If load index on the 20" wheels is a problem, maybe the Chinese 19" power sports wheels is a solution? By the way are there any evidence that these wheels are delivered to customers in China?

Added power on the performance version should not be a problem. I believe the car is entering “tow-mode” when attaching a trailer. In comparison I’ve seen that chill mode on the regular AWD and the P puts down almost the same amount of power.

1cm/0.4inch lower ride height on the performance is not much. Could that require a slightly different design on the attach point if the tow hitch was to be installed on a P?

 

[thegruf]

bump

same frustration here - possibly looking at an M3 Performance but no tow hitch option.
I don't even want to tow - just put a rack on the back for a couple of MTBs.

 

[Finndoc]

I just ordered ”base performance” model. Factory installed tow hitch and 19” wheels. Perfect in crural area I live in.

Dealer adviced that you can’t order these to be made for you. Only inventory cars. This one comes from Holland.

 

[Resist]

Seriously, why would you want to put a tow hitch on a muscle car?

 

[jordanair45]

Seriously, why would you want to put a tow hitch on a muscle car?

"Muscle car" lol

It is quick. But comparable to the cost of a Camry.

I just want a hitch rack for my bikes. I do have the roof rack, but a hitch rack is just way more convenient.

 

[Resist]

"Muscle car" lol

It is quick. But comparable to the cost of a Camry.

You laugh, but it's quicker than my 2003 Z06 405hp Corvette. So yeah, the Performance Model 3 can be considered a Muscle Car.