The dilemma: how do you transport a trailer carrying a solar-powered ice lolly stand up and down the country during the summer holidays, both safely and sustainably?
The solution: The Kia EV9 fitted with a towbar.
Yes, you read that right, towing with an electric car.
It’s a common misconception that EVs aren’t capable of towing but they absolutely can.
In fact, the instant torque that comes with an electric motor means they actually have more pulling power than most petrol and diesel equivalents. Plus, with no gear changes, the drive will be smoother and calmer.
And the Kia EV9 is one of the best out there.
The seven-seat family SUV (named World Car of the Year in 2024) proved to be the perfect choice, too, thanks to over 300 miles of range from its 100kWh battery.
Departing from the ice lolly stand’s home at the GRIDSERVE Innovations and Operations Centre in Swindon, the Kia travelled to Solstice Park Services, Norwich Electric Forecourt® and Dobbies Liverpool as part of a UK-wide tour to promote our new app and hand out free ice lollies to customers.
In total it covered over 800 miles and even towing the extra weight (well over a tonne for both trailer and ice lolly stand), the EV9 was able to reach all of our destinations without needing to charge on the way.
At five metres long, the Kia also offers plenty of space. Normally set up as a seven-seater, the foldable rear bench (done via the touch of a button in the boot) meant we were able to pack the car with all the essentials for a few days away, as well as extra equipment for setting up the stand.
And of course, it wouldn’t be a British getaway without some rain and cloud. That meant our ice lolly stand which tops up its batteries from solar panels on its roof, required some extra juice along the way.
No need for mains supply though, thanks to Kia’s vehicle-to-load technology. This lets you power electronic devices (or in our case top up some batteries) from the car’s battery via a three-pin plug socket in the vehicle.
It meant we could keep the ice lolly stand powered by sustainable energy throughout our trip.
A true tow de force from the Kia EV9.
