Retractable towbar
ExtérieurAverage price
700€ - 2500€
The retractable towbar, also known as a deployable towbar or electric tow bar, is an increasingly popular automotive accessory prized for its discretion and convenience. Unlike fixed or detachable towbars, this system allows the tow ball to be completely concealed beneath the vehicle's rear bumper when not in use. Activation is typically done via a simple button located in the trunk or on the center console. Once triggered, a motorized mechanism deploys or retracts the tow hook in a matter of seconds. This solution combines the utility of a traditional towbar with preserved aesthetics, as it does not alter the vehicle's lines. Furthermore, it eliminates the risk of bumping into the tow ball when loading the trunk and prevents potential interference with the rear parking sensors. The system includes a hidden electrical harness as well, which ensures the connection with the trailer or bicycle carrier lights. It is a premium option, often offered as original equipment by manufacturers, appealing to motorists looking for versatility without compromising on design.
Benefits
- ✓Preserved aesthetics: The tow hook is completely invisible when not in use, leaving the vehicle's design unchanged.
- ✓Convenience and speed: Effortless deployment and retraction via a button, avoiding the handling of a heavy and dirty tow hook.
- ✓Increased safety: No risk of bumping into the tow ball and no interference with parking sensors once retracted.
- ✓Durability and cleanliness: The mechanism is protected from weather, salt, and dirt, extending its lifespan.
Learn more
The retractable tow bar represents the pinnacle of convenience and discretion for motorists who need towing capacity. Unlike traditional solutions, it remains completely out of sight by disappearing entirely beneath the vehicle, thereby preserving the aesthetic integrity of the rear design. It is an increasingly popular option on new vehicles, ranging from family SUVs to premium sedans.
How does a retractable tow bar work?
The operation of the retractable tow bar is designed to be simple and effortless. There are two main types of systems:
- Semi-automatic: A lever or button, often located in the boot, unlocks the mechanism. The ball neck must then be manually guided into its locked position. To stow it, a similar action allows it to be pushed back under the bumper.
- Fully electric: This is the most convenient solution. A simple press of a button (in the boot, on the driver's door, or via the infotainment screen) commands an electric motor that deploys and locks the tow bar automatically. A second press retracts it in the same way. An indicator light confirms proper locking, ensuring optimal safety before towing.
In both cases, the 7-pin or 13-pin electrical harness is integrated with the tow bar and deploys alongside it, ready to be connected.
The advantages of a retractable tow bar
Opting for a retractable tow bar offers significant daily benefits:
- Aesthetics and residual value: By being invisible, it does not compromise the vehicle's design. This is a valued asset that can help maintain a better resale value.
- Ease of use: Gone is the hassle of assembling and disassembling a heavy and often greasy tow ball. The operation takes just a few seconds without getting your hands dirty.
- Safety and practicality: Once stowed, there is no risk of bumping into the tow ball when loading the boot or walking behind the car. Furthermore, it does not interfere with parking sensors, which are sometimes disrupted by a fixed tow bar.
- Longevity: Protected from impacts, corrosion, road salt, and dirt, the mechanism and electrical connections age much better than a tow bar permanently exposed to the elements.
Retractable tow bar vs. detachable tow bar
The most common alternative is the tool-free detachable tow bar (RDSO). While the latter is less expensive, it requires storing the tow ball in the boot (where it can be noisy and take up space) and handling it every time it is used. Although representing a higher initial investment, the retractable tow bar offers unmatched time-saving and convenience, justifying its choice for regular use or for those who prioritize simplicity.
Installation and cost
Installing a retractable tow bar is a complex operation that involves both the vehicle's structure and its electronic system. It is strongly recommended to select it as an option when purchasing a new vehicle for seamless integration. Retrofitting is possible, but must be carried out by a qualified professional. The cost ranges from €700 for a semi-automatic system to over €2,500 for a fully electric version installed on a premium vehicle. This price includes the tow bar, the mechanism, the vehicle-specific wiring harness, and labor, including the electronic coding required for the vehicle to recognize the tow bar (deactivation of reverse parking sensors, ESP adjustment, etc.).
Finitions équipées
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Associated equipment
Hands-free tailgate
The hands-free tailgate, also known as the kick-activated power tailgate, is an automotive convenience technology that allows a vehicle's trunk to be opened and closed without using one's hands. This system is an evolution of the traditional power liftgate. It uses one or more sensors located beneath the rear bumper to detect a specific foot movement. For the system to activate, the vehicle's smart key (keyless entry system) must be detected nearby, typically in the user's pocket or bag. Once the foot movement is recognized, a motorized mechanism takes over to open or close the tailgate fully automatically. Designed to make motorists' lives easier, this feature proves particularly useful when your arms are full of groceries, luggage, or when dealing with a young child. Initially reserved for high-end vehicles, the hands-free tailgate is rapidly democratizing and is now available on numerous models, from family SUVs to compact sedans, often integrated into 'Comfort' or 'Technology' option packages.
Removable towbar
The removable towbar is a towing device that offers an ideal compromise between functionality and aesthetics. Unlike a fixed towbar, its main part, the ball neck (or swan neck), can be removed when not in use. There are two main types: the tool-operated removable towbar (DAO), which requires a tool for installation and removal, and the vertically detachable towbar (RDSO), which is more common and practical, clipping on and locking via a knob or handle, often secured with a key. This system preserves the vehicle's original appearance, as the ball neck is not visible once removed. It is a very popular solution for drivers who occasionally need to tow a trailer, a caravan, or mount a bike carrier, without wanting to keep a prominent tow hook permanently attached. The installation also includes a wiring harness (7 or 13-pin) to power the lights of the towed element, which must be correctly integrated into the vehicle's electronics to ensure safety and the proper functioning of driving aids.
Front and rear parking assist
Front and rear parking assist is an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) designed to make parking maneuvers easier by informing the driver of nearby obstacles. Using ultrasonic sensors, typically integrated into the vehicle's front and rear bumpers, the system continuously measures the distance between the car and surrounding objects (other vehicles, walls, posts, pedestrians). When the driver engages reverse gear or moves forward at very low speeds, the sensors activate. If an obstacle is detected within their range, the system alerts the driver. The alert is usually audible, featuring beeps that increase in frequency as the distance to the obstacle decreases, eventually becoming a continuous tone in the event of immediate proximity. On many models, this auditory alert is complemented by a visual display on the central infotainment screen, showing a schematic view of the vehicle and the areas where obstacles are located. Once reserved for high-end vehicles, this technology is now widely available across all market segments, significantly contributing to the reduction of minor bumps and scrapes and lowering parking-related stress in urban environments.
Towbar pre-equipment
Towbar pre-equipment is a factory option offered when purchasing a new vehicle. It is not the complete towbar system (the ball or the hook), but rather all the technical preparations carried out in advance to facilitate and secure its future installation. Specifically, this generally includes structural reinforcements at the rear chassis of the vehicle, pre-drilled mounting points, and, above all, a dedicated wiring harness. This harness is pre-routed to the trunk, awaiting connection to the towbar. This preparation is crucial for modern cars equipped with multiplexed electronics (CAN bus). It ensures seamless integration with the vehicle's safety systems, such as ESP (which may include trailer stability assist), parking sensors (which automatically deactivate when a trailer is plugged in), and sometimes even the blind spot monitoring system. Opting for towbar pre-equipment is a wise and cost-effective choice for anyone planning, even occasionally, to tow a trailer, a caravan, or install a bike rack. It greatly simplifies aftermarket installation, reduces labor costs, and preserves the integrity of the electrical system as well as the manufacturer's warranty.
Electrically folding towbar
The electrically folding towbar, also known as a power-retractable or electrically deployable towbar, is a high-end solution for drivers who need to tow a trailer, caravan, or bicycle carrier. Unlike fixed or manually detachable towbars, this system is fully motorized. At the simple press of a button, usually located in the boot or integrated into the vehicle's infotainment system, the tow ball automatically pivots from its concealed position behind the bumper to lock into the operating position. Once towing is complete, the same operation makes it disappear, fully preserving the vehicle's rear aesthetics. This device integrates safety sensors that confirm proper locking, often via an indicator light or an audible signal. It is directly connected to the vehicle's electronics, enabling advanced safety functions such as Trailer Stability Program (TSP), which helps counteract trailer sway. It is the most convenient, safest, and most discreet option on the market, generally offered as a factory option on premium vehicles and high-end trim levels.