Can a Prius pull a Scamp trailer?

In this article, we will answer the following question: Can a Prius pull a Scamp trailer? We will discuss the Toyota Prius towing capacity and difficulties. We will also recommend five great campers that your Prius can easily tow. 

Can a Prius pull a Scamp trailer?

No, a Prius cannot pull a Scamp trailer, or it will certainly struggle. The Prius allows a light towing of less than 725 kilograms (1598 lbs). Experts in caravans and trailers agree to recommend for the moment the use of hybrids for towing, as they offer the best performance without limitations in this type of car. Still, a Scamp trailer may be just over the limit for a Prius. 

Scamp includes standard and luxury 16 ′, 19 ′ travel trailers. The 16-foot travel trailer weighs between 2200 lbs and 2600 lbs (997 and 1180 kgs), while the 19-foot RV weighs between 2400 lbs and 2900 lbs. (1088 and 1315 kgs). 

Scamp travel trailers are short and yet include all the standard features you would expect, still, not perfect for our Toyota Prius. 

Toyota Prius Towing Capacity

What can a Toyota Prius tow?

The Toyota Prius 2016 allows you to go camping, as the fourth generation of the Japanese hybrid offers a pulling capacity of 725 kg, which will allow you to carry a small caravan or trailer, yes, it is an extra available in the catalogue accessories and you will have to pay if you want the new Prius (you can read the test here) to accompany you on your getaways.

Regarding the system, it will notify you with red and green indicators when the connection is ready and when you are not using the hitch, you can remove it and store it in a bag in the trunk.

The hardware needed to connect the Prius’ pull system is hidden under the rear bumper, so the rear end design remains the same as the standard model.

On the other hand, the new Toyota Prius offers better thermal management of the electric motor-generator of the hybrid system and the differential. In addition to being more practical, the Prius is also safer, having achieved five Euro NCAP stars that are now stricter than a few years ago.

Other questions you may be interested in

Can I tow a trailer with electric brakes without a brake controller?

Are older travel trailers built better?

Can a Kia Soul tow a small trailer?

Why towing with a Prius may be more difficult

There are several drawbacks of towing with an electric motor. Here are just a few:

Weight: The weight of an electric motor is increased compared to that of a combustion car as it houses a heavy battery that gives it the desired autonomy. Since the trailer brings extra weight, it is a complicated or impossible combination, considering the weight that the electric ones already have.

Brakes: Regenerative brakes are more efficient and are the ones that mount the most plug-ins. However, they are only calibrated for the braking force required by the car and it is not possible to change their setting to accommodate extra loads such as those involved in incorporating a trailer.

Autonomy: The autonomy foreseen in an electric would be seriously affected – reduced – by the use of a trailer. The most common is that a trailer is used for a long trip in which extra belongings or suitcases are transported, but electric cars do not offer long autonomy to face many kilometres without having to charge.

If the driver of a Prius also has to reckon with the expense of towing an extra load, he would have to stop on his route much more often in order to recharge the battery. This does not seem like a practical or comfortable scenario.

Best small campers for your Toyota Prius

Finally, here are a few recommendations of small campers that a Toyota Prius will be able to tow more than easily:

Caretta  Trailers- The oldest brand on the European market, the Caretta caravan from Turkish manufacturer Basoglu debuted in 2008 taking inspiration from the American style. The range includes four models: the flagship Caretta 1500 version, a 4 × 4 version and two utility vehicles (Cargo and Shop).

Hero Camper – This Danish caravan is characterized by a body height above the standard of the “mini” type, offering at the same time more roominess. The galley, however, remains in the rear, protected by a tailgate. It is equipped with a sink, storage space and a place for a refrigerator. 

Hundred Miles Teardrop trailer – This Toulouse manufacturer started production in 2018 and has since offered its caravans not only for sale but also for hire. The originality of the product lies not only in its construction (aluminum sandwich panel) but also in the particular style with the painted wooden wheel fenders. Another find is the indoor table option.

Micro Teardrop Trailer – This Breton manufacturer offers a catalogue with customization possibilities. The offer is based on the Micro, the Teardrop, the 4 × 4 Prestige, not to mention the Mini, which can be towed by a trike or a sidecar. There are also two new features, in a larger box: two versions for 3 and 4 people, with bunk beds.

My Tiny Camp – Locally purchased wood and aluminum, insulation and paints that are non-aggressive for the body: My Tiny Camp is positioned as an eco-responsible caravan, made in France and that you can maintain yourself. Like its counterparts, it can be equipped with much optional equipment.

The bottom line

The Toyota Prius is a highly recommended hybrid, to which there is no real reason to say no, other than its design. In any case, if his face does not convince you, you should know that there is a Toyota Corolla with exactly the same hybrid system as the Prius, but with a much less extravagant design.

As long as you choose the right type of camper and respect the car’s towing capacity, you will be able to enjoy camping with your Prius just like you would with any other car!

If you have any questions or comments about the content, please let us know. 

FAQ on Can a Prius pull a scamp?

Can you tow a small trailer with a Prius?

Yes, you can tow a small trailer with a Prius. The 2015 and onwards Toyota Prius models have a towing capacity of 725 kilograms/1,598 lbs, which makes it capable of towing a lightweight caravan or small camper. 

Can you put a trailer hitch on a Toyota Prius?

You can put a trailer hitch on a Toyota Prius, but if you haven’t a clue about installing a hitch, it is best to ask help from a Toyota authorised mechanic. 

How do you put a Prius in neutral when towing?

When towing, you can shift a Prius in neutral by hitting the power button twice without your foot on the brake then put your foot on the brake to put it in neutral. 

References

• Meet the ‘Portable Cabin’ You Can Tow With a Prius: Camp365 …
• Scamp 13 Towing with 2016 Prius – Fiberglass RV
• Toyota Prius – Towing Capacity & Weight Limit Information