Towing weight & trailer

Questions and answers about towing weight & trailer

What is the difference between braked and unbraked towing weight?

Unbraked towing weight applies to a trailer without its own braking system and is low, often around 750 kg. Braked towing weight applies to a trailer with an overrun brake and is higher. Both are manufacturer figures; the legally permitted value for a specific vehicle is stated on the vehicle registration document (kentekenbewijs).

Is the towing weight stated on the model page binding?

No. It is a manufacturer figure per model or trim and can differ by engine variant, suspension or option. The vehicle registration document (kentekenbewijs) of the specific vehicle is always decisive. Check it before you hitch a trailer or caravan.

Can an electric car always tow a trailer?

Not automatically. Some EVs have a low or no stated towing weight because the drivetrain or the type approval limits it. Where a manufacturer figure exists we show it; where it is missing it reads “n.b.”. The vehicle registration document (kentekenbewijs) remains decisive.

What is the noseweight and why does it count?

The noseweight is the maximum vertical load the tow bar and the ball may carry, separate from the towing weight. An excessive drawbar load exceeds the noseweight even if the total trailer weight stays within the standard. The permitted value is stated on the tow bar and in the vehicle documentation.

Does autoseeker advise on caravan or trailer choice?

No. We show the towing weight and noseweight specs factually with source and let you weigh them yourself against your vehicle registration document (kentekenbewijs) and the trailer weight. We do not give buying advice and no “best choice for you”.