• Cargo & towing capabilities
• Interior Cargo
• Frunk Cargo
• Roof Cargo
• Hitch Cargo
• Pickup bed Cargo
• Towing

Interior Cargo

Interior cargo refers to the cargo space enclosed and protected by the car's body and windows. Internal cargo can vary depending on the model and the car's configuration.

What are the benefits and drawbacks of having the cargo inside the car? How can the interior cargo space be maximized and secured? This article will answer these questions and provide some tips for using the interior cargo space of the car effectively.

Capacity

The cargo capacity varies greatly depending on the car type and the manufacturer’s chosen solutions.

Most cars can fold the rear seats flat. When doing this, it can increase the cargo capacity. Typical cars have a 40:60 split or a 40:20:40 split on the rear seats to put down 3, 2, or 1 of the back seat.

For 3-row cars, the driver can typically fold both third and second-row seats flat.

The following table lists the trunk and max space with rear seats folded flat for many popular models.

Several models have hidden storage in the trunk below the floor.

Securing cargo

Many models have securing hooks in the trunk to fasten storage, while others do not. The driver can attach a net or other securing mechanism to the hooks to ensure the cargo does not come flying if you crash.

Camping

Many EVs are great for camping since they can heat when parked. Many have a camping mode for the air conditioning.

Some manufacturers even offer mattresses to use in the rear.

Advantages of interior cargo

Interior cargo has some advantages that make it preferable to other options, such as:

Security

Interior cargo is more secure and safe than exterior cargo, as it is less visible and more difficult to access by thieves or vandals. Internal cargo is also less likely to fly off or get damaged by weather, road debris, or collisions.

Accessibility

Interior cargo is more accessible and convenient than exterior cargo, as it does not require climbing onto the roof or reaching behind the car to load or unload the items. Interior cargo can also be accessed from inside the car through the rear seats or the rear doors, which can be useful in tight parking spaces or bad weather conditions.

Fuel economy

Interior cargo impacts the car’s energy consumption less than exterior cargo, as it does not affect its aerodynamics or wind resistance. Exterior cargo carriers, especially roof cargo carriers, can increase the car’s drag and reduce energy consumption by up to 25%. Interior cargo can also lower the car’s center of gravity and improve its stability and handling.

Possible Limitations of Interior Cargo

Interior cargo has its drawbacks, however. Some of the limitations and challenges of using the interior cargo space of the car are:

Weight capacity

Interior cargo has a limited capacity that cannot be exceeded without compromising the car’s performance, safety, or legality. Interior cargo cannot exceed the car’s maximum payload, which is the total weight of the passengers and the cargo that the car can carry.

Compatibility

Interior cargo may only be compatible with some types of items that the owner may want to store or transport. Interior cargo may be unable to accommodate large, bulky, or irregular items that do not fit inside the car or may damage the car’s interior. Interior cargo may also not be suitable for dirty, wet, or smelly items, as they may stain, damage, or contaminate the car’s interior.

Comfort

Interior cargo may reduce the comfort and convenience of the passengers and the driver, as it may take up some space that would otherwise be used for seating, legroom, or storage. Interior cargo may also create noise, vibration, or odor that may disturb passengers and drivers. Internal cargo may also affect the car’s climate control system, blocking the air vents or the windows.