Tow bar

Mine came with what I think is type approval certificate that sets out all the facts about the towbar - is there something you particularly need to know ? No plate on towbar, not that is easily visible.

Ordering new car & cannot get info on new retractable hitch 

I know what car can tow  The retractable has a lot of joints in it & need to know if it suitable for what car can tow weight wise

from past experience  different makes have different loads

to sum up the tow limit of car is not necessary same as tow bar

Well the towbar itself is rated to 140kg vertical load and in my case the car is rated to 2,700kg with the factory fit towbar (nb: not normally actually factory fitted on Vovlos) so the towbar must be rated to at least 2,700kg.

Thanks for that info  tho nose weight for XC60 is 100kg in Volvo spec

no info other than that

As with what seems all retractable, swan neck and removable tow hooks ,why are the 13pin sockets fitted where it needs you to get on your knees and reach under the rear of the car to get the plug connected

The electrics on my retractable bar are where most retractable bars have them ie on the side of it ... though you have a point with some detachable bars.

The Volvo one isn't - it's on the side of the towbar and works very well. The towbar also has a proper point to attach the breakaway cable which is also easy to use. Also plenty of clearance to bumper.

Just remember that the Alko hitch has a max weight rated at 100kg so even if tow bar rated higher, that's what you have to work to.

Not so on the Land Rover Discovery, or any other Land Rover that I have used.

Seems one has to be carefull & work to lowest number given by car or tow hitch manufacturer  On slightly different note does anybody remember when towing a trailer at or above car kerb weight you was limited to 40 miles an hour?