Towing for Electric Vehicles: What Owners Should Know
Introduction
Electric vehicles have changed the way people think about driving, charging, maintenance, and roadside emergencies. They have also introduced a few important considerations when a vehicle needs to be moved by a tow truck.
An EV may look similar to a gasoline-powered car from the outside, but its electric motor, high-voltage battery, regenerative braking system, and drivetrain can make improper towing risky. A towing method that works for one vehicle may not be appropriate for another.
That matters even more during a roadside emergency. If an electric vehicle loses power on a Dallas-Fort Worth highway, gets a flat tire, is involved in an accident, or needs transportation after a mechanical or electrical problem, the safest approach is to follow the manufacturer's towing instructions and use equipment suited to the vehicle.
This guide explains how electric vehicle towing works, when flatbed towing is recommended, what EV owners should do during a breakdown, and which common towing mistakes should be avoided.
Why Electric Vehicles Require Special Towing Considerations
The biggest difference between an EV and a conventional vehicle is the drivetrain. Instead of relying on an internal combustion engine and traditional transmission, many electric vehicles use one or more electric motors connected to the wheels through a different type of drivetrain.
The high-voltage battery is another major consideration. It is usually mounted underneath the passenger compartment and can be a large, heavy component of the vehicle. Damage to the battery or surrounding components may require additional caution after an accident or severe impact.
Regenerative braking also changes how an EV behaves when the wheels turn. Depending on the model and its operating state, allowing driven wheels to rotate while the vehicle is being towed can create problems.
For these reasons, towing an EV is not simply a matter of attaching a truck and pulling it away.
The Owner's Manual Comes First
There is no single towing procedure that applies to every electric vehicle.
Tesla, Ford, Chevrolet, Hyundai, Rivian, Kia, Volkswagen, Lucid, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and other manufacturers may have different procedures for preparing their vehicles for transportation. Some models have specific tow modes, transport modes, or instructions concerning wheel movement.
Before a tow, the manufacturer's instructions should be checked whenever circumstances allow.
If the vehicle is disabled and the owner cannot access the manual, the towing professional can help determine the safest general approach, but model-specific instructions should still be followed whenever available.
EVs Still Need Roadside Assistance
An electric vehicle can experience many of the same roadside problems as a gasoline-powered vehicle.
For example, an EV may have:
A flat or damaged tire
A depleted traction battery
A dead 12-volt battery
Collision damage
A locked or inaccessible vehicle
Suspension or wheel damage
Electrical system problems
A charging-related issue
A problem that prevents the vehicle from entering drive mode
An EV may not need engine-related repairs, but that does not mean it is immune to roadside emergencies.
Is Flatbed Towing Best for an Electric Vehicle?
In many situations, flatbed towing is the safest choice for transporting an electric vehicle because all four wheels can remain off the road during transportation.
A flatbed tow truck carries the vehicle on a level platform rather than dragging its wheels along the pavement. This can reduce the possibility of unwanted wheel rotation and helps avoid complications associated with the vehicle's drivetrain.
That does not mean every EV must always be transported by a flatbed. The correct method depends on the vehicle, its condition, the manufacturer's instructions, and the circumstances surrounding the breakdown.
Why Flatbed Towing Can Be a Good Choice
Flatbed transportation offers several practical advantages for EV owners:
All wheels can be lifted off the road: This can help prevent drivetrain-related problems caused by unintended wheel rotation.
Useful after an accident: A damaged EV may have compromised wheels, tires, suspension components, or underbody areas that make conventional towing less suitable.
Great for specialty vehicles: Higher-value or performance-oriented EVs may benefit from transportation that minimizes unnecessary contact with the road.
Reduces additional wear: A vehicle that is already disabled does not need its drive wheels rotating unnecessarily during transportation to reduce vehicle wear.
Does Every EV Need a Flatbed Tow Truck?
Not necessarily.
Some EVs can be moved using other approved methods or specialized towing equipment. However, owners should not assume that a wheel-lift method is safe simply because it is commonly used for other vehicles.
The towing method should be based on the vehicle manufacturer's requirements and the vehicle's condition.
If there is uncertainty, asking for a flatbed tow truck is often a sensible starting point, particularly when the vehicle has drivetrain, wheel, suspension, or accident damage.
How to Tow an Electric Vehicle Safely
The safest EV towing process begins before the vehicle is loaded. A professional towing operator should first assess the vehicle and determine whether it can roll, steer, and be safely accessed.
Step 1: Identify the Vehicle
The make, model, and year can help determine the manufacturer's recommended transportation procedure. This information is especially useful if the vehicle has unique towing requirements or a specific transport mode.
Step 2: Assess the Vehicle's Condition
The operator should look for visible damage to:
Tires and wheels
Suspension
Steering components
Underbody areas
Charging components
Vehicle structure
Battery-related areas
After a serious collision, the condition of the vehicle may be very different from that of an ordinary breakdown.
Step 3: Determine Whether the Vehicle Can Roll
An EV with locked wheels, severe suspension damage, or collision-related problems may require additional equipment for loading. Trying to force a damaged vehicle onto a tow truck can create more problems.
Step 4: Use the Correct Loading Equipment
The equipment should be appropriate for the vehicle's weight, dimensions, ground clearance, and condition. Low-clearance EVs can require extra attention during loading and unloading because ramps, steep driveways, curbs, and uneven pavement can create underbody clearance concerns.
Step 5: Secure the Vehicle Properly
Once loaded, the vehicle should be secured according to accepted towing practices and any applicable manufacturer instructions. The goal is to keep the vehicle stable throughout transportation without putting unnecessary stress on vulnerable components.
What Should You Do If Your EV Runs Out of Charge?
Running out of charge can be particularly stressful because an EV cannot simply be refueled with gasoline and driven to the nearest station.
If your electric vehicle reaches a critically low battery level:
Move to a safe location if the vehicle can still be driven.
Turn on hazard lights if you are stopped near traffic.
Contact Infront Towing for roadside assistance if the vehicle cannot safely reach a charging location.
Provide the towing company with the EV's make and model.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for transporting the vehicle.
Avoid attempting an improvised tow using another private vehicle unless the manufacturer specifically permits it.
If the vehicle breaks down on a busy DFW road, personal safety should take priority over trying to solve the charging problem yourself.
A Dead EV Battery Is Not Always the Same as a Dead 12-Volt Battery
Many EV owners are surprised to learn that electric vehicles generally have a separate low-voltage electrical system in addition to the large traction battery.
The 12-volt system powers various vehicle electronics and control systems. If that battery becomes discharged, the vehicle may not unlock, shift into the necessary mode, or respond normally even though the main battery still contains energy.
This is one reason a vehicle with a dead battery may need a specific type of roadside assistance like a jump start rather than simply charging the main battery.
The appropriate procedure varies by vehicle, so owners should follow the manufacturer's instructions.
What If an Electric Vehicle Has a Flat Tire?
A flat tire is one of the most straightforward EV roadside problems, but the vehicle's weight and wheel design can make the situation more complicated.
EVs can be heavier than comparable gasoline-powered vehicles because of their battery packs. That means using equipment rated for the vehicle's actual weight is essential. Some EVs also have specialized tires, low-profile tires, large wheels, or limited spare-tire provisions.
If a tire can be safely repaired or replaced at the roadside, a tire change service may be enough. If the wheel, tire, suspension, or surrounding components are damaged, transporting the vehicle may be the better option.
Do Not Ignore Tire Damage
Driving an EV on a severely damaged or completely flat tire can cause additional damage to the tire, wheel, or suspension. If the vehicle cannot be safely moved, professional tire change services or a tow truck should handle the situation according to the manufacturer's requirements.
Towing an EV After an Accident
Accident recovery requires extra caution because damage may extend beyond what is visible.
A collision can affect the battery enclosure, electrical components, suspension, steering system, wheels, or vehicle structure. Even if the vehicle appears relatively intact, an impact can create conditions that require professional assessment.
Why Accident Recovery Is Different
After a collision, the priority is not simply getting the car onto a tow truck quickly. The vehicle needs to be moved without unnecessarily worsening existing damage, which is why utilizing accident recovery services is critical.
Drivers should tell the towing provider that the vehicle is electric and explain whether it has been involved in a collision.
If there is visible smoke, unusual heat, damaged battery components, sparks, or other signs of a serious electrical or battery problem, move away from the vehicle and contact emergency services when appropriate. Do not attempt to inspect or repair damaged high-voltage components yourself.
Common EV Towing Mistakes to Avoid
Some towing mistakes happen because owners assume electric vehicles can be handled exactly like conventional cars.
Assuming Any Tow Truck Can Transport an EV
Towing equipment comes in different configurations, and not every setup is ideal for every vehicle. What information you should give a towing company includes letting the dispatcher know that you have an electric vehicle and providing the make and model when possible.
Allowing the Drive Wheels to Roll Without Checking the Manual
This is one of the most important mistakes to avoid. Some vehicles have specific limitations concerning how far or how fast they can be moved with wheels on the ground. Others require different procedures altogether. The manufacturer's instructions should determine the appropriate method.
Trying to Pull a Disabled EV With Another Vehicle
Improvised towing can create risks for the vehicle, the people involved, and other road users. An EV that cannot move under its own power should be handled with appropriate recovery equipment.
Ignoring Ground Clearance
Many EVs have low underbody components. A steep driveway, loading ramp, curb, or uneven surface can create clearance problems. A careful loading process can help reduce the risk of underbody contact.
Forgetting to Mention Accident Damage
Always tell the towing provider if the vehicle has been in a collision. Information about damaged wheels, steering, suspension, or the underside of the vehicle can help determine what equipment is needed.
EV Towing in the Dallas-Fort Worth Area
DFW drivers deal with a mix of urban streets, major highways, toll roads, frontage roads, suburban routes, and long-distance travel between communities. An EV breakdown can happen anywhere in that network.
If a vehicle stops on a busy highway, the first priority should be getting occupants away from traffic when it is safe to do so. Turn on hazard lights and contact appropriate roadside assistance or emergency services based on the situation.
Extreme Texas temperatures can also make roadside problems more uncomfortable and potentially more dangerous. Drivers should avoid unnecessary exposure to heat and should not remain in an unsafe location simply because they are waiting for a charging station or trying to troubleshoot the vehicle.
Professional roadside assistance can help with issues such as flat tires, jump-start-related needs for applicable low-voltage systems, vehicle recovery, and transportation to a repair facility or charging location.
How to Prepare Your EV for a Future Towing Emergency
A few simple preparations can make a roadside emergency much easier to manage.
Know Your Vehicle's Towing Instructions
Read the towing or roadside recovery section of your owner's manual before you need it. Look for information about:
Tow mode or transport mode
Flatbed requirements
Wheel-lift restrictions
Maximum towing speeds
Loading procedures
Emergency release procedures
Tire-related limitations
Save Important Information
Keep your vehicle's make, model, year, roadside assistance information, insurance details, and preferred repair facility readily available. If you regularly travel throughout DFW, it is also useful to know where nearby charging stations are located along your usual routes.
Keep Your Vehicle Charged for Planned Travel
EV drivers do not need to keep the battery at maximum capacity at all times, but planning ahead can reduce the likelihood of running critically low during long trips. Consider traffic, weather, route length, charging availability, and unexpected delays when planning longer drives.
EV Towing vs. Traditional Vehicle Towing
The basic purpose of towing is the same: safely move a disabled vehicle from one location to another. The difference is in the details.
ConsiderationElectric VehicleTraditional Gas VehicleMain power sourceHigh-voltage batteryFuel and combustion engineLow-voltage systemTypically presentTypically presentDrivetrainElectric motor-basedEngine/transmission-basedTowing procedureModel-specificModel-specificFlatbed useOften useful, depending on manufacturerDepends on vehicleAccident recoveryRequires attention to high-voltage componentsFocuses on mechanical/structural damageCharging/fuel issueMay require transport to charging locationMay require fuel delivery
The table illustrates why there is no universal towing procedure. Vehicle design, drivetrain configuration, damage, and manufacturer instructions all matter.
What EV Owners Should Remember
The most useful rule is simple: do not assume your electric vehicle can be towed the same way as every other car.
If your EV becomes disabled, focus on safety first. Tell the towing provider that it is an electric vehicle, provide the exact model if possible, and follow the manufacturer's transportation instructions.
Flatbed towing can be an excellent option for many EV situations because it keeps all four wheels off the road, but the final decision should be based on the vehicle and its condition. For DFW drivers, knowing these basics before a roadside emergency can save time and help prevent avoidable damage.
Conclusion
Electric vehicles are reliable transportation, but they still experience flat tires, depleted batteries, low-voltage electrical problems, accidents, and other roadside emergencies. Their unique drivetrain and high-voltage battery system simply mean that towing requires a little more attention to the correct procedure.
The safest approach is to identify the vehicle, assess its condition, check the manufacturer's towing instructions, and use equipment appropriate for the EV. Flatbed towing is often a practical choice, particularly when the vehicle cannot safely roll or has drivetrain, wheel, suspension, or accident damage.
If you drive an EV around Dallas-Fort Worth, keep your owner's manual accessible, understand your vehicle's transport requirements, and know how to request roadside assistance when you need it. A few minutes of preparation can make an unexpected breakdown much easier to handle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an electric vehicle be towed like a regular car?
Not always. EV towing procedures vary by make and model. Some vehicles have specific requirements concerning wheel movement, towing speed, or transport mode. Always check the manufacturer's instructions before allowing the vehicle to be towed.
Is flatbed towing safer for electric vehicles?
Flatbed towing is often a preferred option because it allows the vehicle to be transported with all four wheels off the road. This can help prevent unwanted drivetrain or wheel movement. However, the manufacturer's towing instructions should determine the correct method for a specific EV.
What should I do if my electric car runs out of charge?
Move to a safe location if possible, turn on your hazard lights, and contact roadside assistance if the vehicle cannot reach a charging station. Tell the towing provider that the vehicle is electric and provide the make and model so the appropriate transportation method can be selected.
Can an EV be towed if the battery is completely dead?
Yes, a disabled EV can generally be transported, but the procedure depends on the vehicle. A completely discharged traction battery may also be accompanied by a low-voltage battery issue. The vehicle should be moved according to the manufacturer's approved towing procedure.
Can a towing company jump-start an electric vehicle?
Some EVs have a conventional low-voltage battery that may require assistance, but this is different from charging the vehicle's main traction battery. The correct procedure varies by model. Do not connect equipment to high-voltage components unless specifically designed and authorized for that purpose.
What happens if an electric vehicle is damaged in an accident?
An EV involved in a collision should be assessed carefully for damage to the wheels, suspension, underbody, structure, and battery-related components. Tell the towing provider that the vehicle is electric and explain the accident damage. Serious electrical or battery concerns should be handled with appropriate safety precautions.
Can an electric vehicle be towed with a wheel-lift truck?
Some EVs may permit certain wheel-lift procedures, while others have restrictions. The answer depends on the vehicle's drivetrain and manufacturer requirements. Never assume that a wheel-lift method is safe simply because it works for a conventional vehicle.
Do electric vehicles have special towing requirements?
Yes. Requirements can involve the towing method, wheel movement, transport mode, loading procedure, and maximum towing speed. The exact instructions vary between manufacturers and models, so the owner's manual is the best source for vehicle-specific requirements.
What should I tell a tow truck driver when my EV breaks down?
Provide the vehicle's make, model, and year and explain what happened. Mention whether the battery is depleted, whether the vehicle was involved in an accident, whether the wheels or tires are damaged, and whether the vehicle can roll and steer normally.
How can I prepare my electric vehicle for a towing emergency?
Read the manufacturer's towing instructions, keep roadside assistance information available, know your vehicle's transport mode if it has one, and understand whether the vehicle has a spare tire or special tire requirements. Planning your charging stops can also reduce the chance of becoming stranded with a depleted battery.
