Coming End of September 2022: US-Compatible StealthHitches Hitch for Tesla X
X Hitch Update for the US Owners
Good news for everyone who was reconsidering the car due to lacking a hitch in the USA: StealthHitches will soon have one available (end of September 2022). After discussing the options with them, they said that they would need a donor vehicle to design one. A few emails and phone calls back and forth later, the car was picked up August 2nd and arranged for trip to Atlanta for end of August.
It looks like they cut a hole through the bumper, and it is possible to install it yourself with the right tools/knowledge, but instructions will be provided. The hole is necessary as on one side you have the locking mechanism that you need to reach with key, and on the other side a release mechanism. It is not tied into the electrical system in any way, so it shouldn't cause any problems with warranty should issues arise.
The sensors on x7 with stealth hitch detect and trigger as if about to hit something. When backing up, this is expected; however when driving down the freeway, it could interfere with driver assistance. With an old Tesla X, proximity alarms/signals were shown when driving down the freeway with bike on back, but no audible alarms or anything. It wouldn't auto park because it thought something was right behind it (correctly) and if went into "R" it would tell me to stop but audible alarm could be disabled.
To cover the hole in the bumper when hitch is not in use, color matched duck tape can be used. As far as testing a rack on it yet to see if having a rack back there sets off any of reverse or proximity alarms or affects cruise pro at all, this has yet to be done. It will be interesting to see how it performs once bike rack is installed and if driver assistance issues arise.
The hitch is expected to be available for purchase by the end of September 2022. It will be a great addition to the car and should make it easier to transport bikes, kayaks, and other items. The price is still being determined but should be reasonable.
We are excited to see how this new hitch works out and what it can do for our US customers. We will keep you updated as we get closer to the release date. In the meantime, if you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out. We are here to help.
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Is it a self install option after purchase or do they have to install it?
It is possible to install the hitch yourself with the right tools and knowledge, but you may need to outsource it locally. Instructions will be provided.
Does having a rack on the back set off any of the reverse or proximity alarms or affect the cruise pro at all?
The sensors on the x7 with stealth hitch detect and trigger as if something is about to hit it. Connecting into BMW electrical components may be necessary to avoid this, but only with BMW certified components.
Is there any kind of plate to cover the hole in the bumper when the hitch is not in use?
A piece can be cut accurately and saved to reuse as a cover, though this is a stretch. Color matched duck tape can also be used to cover the hole.
Will using a hitch cause any problems with warranty should issues arise?
It shouldn't, as it's not tied into the electrical system in any way. It's illegal to void the entire warranty for a modification to a specific area.
What are the sensor alarms doing to alert you?
With an old Tesla X, proximity alarms/signals were shown when driving down the freeway with a bike on the back, but no audible alarms or anything. It wouldn't auto park because it thought something was right behind it (correctly) and if "R" was selected, it would tell you to stop but the audible alarm could be disabled.
Is the hitch compatible with all US models?
Yes, the hitch is compatible with all US models. It has been tested and certified for use in the US.
Is there a way to get a discount on the purchase of the hitch?
Yes, we offer discounts for bulk orders and for returning customers. We also have a loyalty program that rewards customers with points they can use to purchase products at a discounted rate.
Are there any other accessories available for the hitch?
Yes, we offer a range of accessories such as bike racks, cargo carriers, and trailer hitches. All of these are designed to work with our hitch and make it easier to transport your belongings.
Does the hitch come with any kind of warranty?
Yes, we offer a limited lifetime warranty on our hitches. This covers any defects in material or workmanship that may occur during normal use.