Spent the weekend towing a 3,500-pound boat over a 116-mile journey, using my GMC Sierra EV.
GMC Sierra EV Shines in Towing Performance
In a recent demonstration, the upcoming GMC Sierra EV successfully towed a 3,500-pound boat during a weekend trip, showcasing its impressive towing capabilities.
The Sierra EV's towing capacity ranges from 10,000 pounds for the 2025 Extended Range Denali trim, up to 12,300–12,500 pounds for the 2026 model with an Extended or Max Range battery, far exceeding the weight of most boats.
The truck's payload capacity is equally impressive, with up to 2,250 pounds available depending on configuration, ensuring it can comfortably support heavy loads. Regarding driving range, the 2025 Extended Range Denali offers approximately 400 miles per full charge, while the 2026 model with Max Range battery can provide up to 478 miles.
Comparatively, traditional gas-powered GMC Sierras typically have towing capacities between 9,000 and 12,000 pounds, depending on engine and configuration. However, electric Sierras may experience some range reduction when towing.
Here's a comparison of the key aspects between the 2025-2026 GMC Sierra EV and gas-powered GMC Sierra:
| Aspect | 2025-2026 GMC Sierra EV | Gas-Powered GMC Sierra | |-------------------------|-------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------| | Towing Capacity | 10,000 - 12,500 lbs (trim and battery dependent) | Approx. 9,000 - 12,000 lbs | | Payload Capacity | Up to 2,250 lbs | Comparable, varies with model | | Estimated Range (no load) | 400 - 478 miles (depending on battery) | Unlimited by fuel tank capacity, but lower MPG when towing | | Range Impact When Towing | Range decreases but good for typical 3,500 lb boat towing | Less impact from towing, but fuel consumption increases |
The Sierra EV's performance advantages include instant torque, which is particularly helpful when towing heavy loads. However, until charging networks become more robust and battery technology improves, gas or extended-range hybrids remain more practical for long hauls.
Other electric trucks, such as the Rivian R1T and the upcoming Ram 1500 Ramcharger, are also making waves in the towing market, with the Rivian R1T capable of towing up to 11,000 pounds and the Ram 1500 Ramcharger claiming up to 700 miles of total range when both the battery and fuel tank are full.
As electric vehicles enter a market long dominated by gas-powered workhorses, it's clear that towing and hauling capabilities are essential for electric trucks to be taken seriously. The GMC Sierra EV, with its impressive towing and payload capacities, is well-positioned to lead the charge in this new era.
The GMC Sierra EV's impressive towing capacity, ranging from 10,000 to 12,500 pounds, allows it to tow heavy loads like a 3,500-pound boat comfortably. With the adoption of electric-vehicles, gadgets like the Sierra EV are revolutionizing the lifestyle of individuals who require high towing capacities, challenging traditional gas-powered trucks in this sector.
