Yes, electric vehicles can be towed, but they require specific methods to prevent damage to their sensitive powertrains and battery systems.
Getting stranded is never fun, no matter what powers your ride. When your electric vehicle needs a lift, it brings up some unique questions. Understanding the right way to tow an EV protects your investment and ensures a safe recovery.
The Core Difference: Why EVs Need Special Towing
Traditional gasoline cars have a drivetrain that disconnects easily when the engine is off. Electric vehicles operate differently, with electric motors often directly connected to the wheels. This direct connection means that if the wheels turn, the motor can generate electricity.
This process, called regenerative braking, is usually a good thing, but not when towing. When an EV is towed with its drive wheels on the ground, the spinning wheels can force the electric motors to operate. This unmanaged power generation can cause severe damage to the motor, the inverter, or the high-voltage battery system.
It’s like trying to run an alternator without proper voltage regulation; things can go south fast. The electrical components are designed for controlled operation, not for being spun up passively. Unregulated current can lead to overheating and catastrophic failure of expensive parts. This is why understanding your EV’s specific needs is not just good practice, it’s essential for its health.
Can Electric Cars Be Towed? Understanding Safe Methods
Proper towing for an electric vehicle is vital for its longevity and safety. The goal is always to prevent the drive wheels from spinning while the vehicle is off. Different EV models might have specific recommendations, so checking the owner’s manual is always the first step. Generally, there are a few accepted methods for safely moving an EV.
- Flatbed Towing: This is the gold standard for electric vehicles. A flatbed truck lifts the entire vehicle off the ground, ensuring all four wheels are stationary. This method completely eliminates any risk of damage to the drivetrain or battery. It’s the safest choice for any EV, especially over longer distances.
- Wheel-Lift Towing (Rear-Wheel Drive EVs): For some rear-wheel drive EVs, a wheel-lift tow truck can lift the drive wheels off the ground. The front wheels remain on the ground and can steer. This method is acceptable only if the vehicle is rear-wheel drive and the rear (drive) wheels are lifted.
- Wheel-Lift Towing (Front-Wheel Drive EVs): Similarly, for front-wheel drive EVs, the front (drive) wheels must be lifted. The rear wheels can remain on the ground. Always confirm the drive configuration of your EV before attempting this.
- Dolly Towing: A tow dolly lifts two wheels off the ground, allowing the other two to roll. This can be used for EVs, but only if the drive wheels are placed on the dolly. For a front-wheel drive EV, the front wheels go on the dolly. For a rear-wheel drive EV, the rear wheels go on the dolly. All-wheel drive EVs generally cannot be safely towed with a dolly.
Why AWD EVs are Tricky
All-wheel drive electric vehicles present a unique challenge. Since power can be sent to both front and rear axles, it’s often impossible to lift all drive wheels simultaneously with a simple wheel-lift or dolly. For AWD EVs, a flatbed tow is almost always the only safe option. Attempting to tow an AWD EV with only two wheels lifted can still cause significant damage to the un-lifted drive axle.
Manufacturer Guidelines and Your Owner’s Manual
Every electric vehicle manufacturer provides specific towing instructions in the owner’s manual. These instructions are not suggestions; they are critical directives based on the vehicle’s design. Ignoring these guidelines can void warranties and lead to costly repairs. Always consult your specific vehicle’s manual before any towing operation.
It will detail the acceptable towing methods, any speed limitations, and distance restrictions. Some manufacturers might allow limited towing distances with certain methods, while others strictly mandate flatbed towing for all situations.
Here’s a simplified look at common manufacturer recommendations:
| EV Type | Recommended Towing Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) EV | Flatbed or Dolly (front wheels on dolly) | Ensure drive wheels are off the ground. |
| Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) EV | Flatbed or Dolly (rear wheels on dolly) | Ensure drive wheels are off the ground. |
| All-Wheel Drive (AWD) EV | Flatbed Only | All four wheels must be off the ground. |
Battery and Thermal Management During Towing
The high-voltage battery system in an EV is a sophisticated component. While a flatbed tow completely isolates the battery from the drivetrain, other methods require more consideration. If an EV is towed with its drive wheels on the ground, even if it’s “off,” the regenerative braking effect can still occur. This can generate heat and electricity that the vehicle’s systems are not prepared to handle when powered down.
Overheating of the motor or inverter can occur, and uncontrolled electrical current can damage sensitive electronics.
Consider these points:
- “Neutral” Setting: Some EVs have a “tow mode” or specific instructions for putting the vehicle in neutral for short distances. This might temporarily disengage the motors, but it’s rarely a substitute for lifting the drive wheels. Always verify if your specific model allows this and for how long.
- Battery State of Charge: While not directly related to towing damage, a completely depleted battery can sometimes complicate vehicle access or system activation. Roadside assistance typically handles this, but it’s a factor.
- Thermal Runaway Risk: Though rare, severe damage from improper towing could, in extreme cases, lead to battery thermal events. This underscores the importance of following manufacturer guidelines precisely.
Emergency Situations and Roadside Assistance
When you find yourself stranded, the immediate concern is safety and getting help. For electric vehicles, calling professional roadside assistance is the highest priority. Do not attempt to “buddy tow” an EV with a rope or chain unless explicitly allowed by the manufacturer for very specific, short-distance, low-speed scenarios (which is rare). Most tow operators are familiar with EV towing protocols. When you call for assistance, clearly state that you have an electric vehicle. This allows them to dispatch the correct equipment, typically a flatbed tow truck. A standard wheel-lift truck might be fine for some FWD or RWD EVs, but only if the driver knows exactly which wheels to lift.
What to tell your tow operator:
- Your vehicle is an electric vehicle (EV).
- The make, model, and year of your EV.
- If you know, specify if it’s FWD, RWD, or AWD.
- Any specific instructions from your owner’s manual regarding towing.
- The reason for the tow, such as a flat tire or depleted battery.
Understanding these details helps the tow operator prepare properly and prevents potential issues. They can then assess the situation and confirm the safest method for your vehicle’s specific design. Reputable tow services adhere to industry best practices, often aligning with guidelines from organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for vehicle safety. Many modern tow trucks carry equipment specifically designed for EV recovery, including non-marring straps and dollies. Always confirm the tow service understands EV requirements before they begin.
Here’s a quick reference for common towing scenarios:
| Scenario | Best Action | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Flat tire (any EV) | Roadside tire change or flatbed tow | Prevents driving on damaged tire, flatbed for overall safety. |
| Out of charge (FWD/RWD EV) | Flatbed or appropriate dolly tow | Protects drivetrain from unmanaged regen. |
| Out of charge (AWD EV) | Flatbed Only | Ensures all drive wheels are off the ground. |
| Mechanical breakdown (any EV) | Flatbed Only | Safest option when vehicle integrity is compromised. |
Always prioritize the flatbed option if there’s any doubt. It’s the simplest way to ensure your EV arrives at its destination without further complications. Your vehicle’s health depends on it.
Can Electric Cars Be Towed? — FAQs
Can I tow my EV with a regular tow strap?
No, towing an electric vehicle with a regular tow strap or chain is generally not recommended. This method keeps all wheels on the ground, potentially damaging the electric motors and battery system. Always opt for professional towing services using methods that lift the drive wheels or the entire vehicle.
What happens if an EV is towed incorrectly?
Incorrect towing can lead to serious damage to an EV’s electric motors, inverter, and high-voltage battery. The spinning drive wheels can generate uncontrolled electricity, causing overheating or electrical component failure. This type of damage is expensive to repair and often voids the vehicle’s warranty.
Can all-wheel drive (AWD) EVs be towed with a dolly?
Generally, no, all-wheel drive electric vehicles should not be towed with a dolly. A dolly lifts only two wheels, leaving the other two drive wheels on the ground. For AWD systems, this can cause significant damage to the un-lifted drive components. A flatbed tow truck is the safest and only recommended method for AWD EVs.
Does a “tow mode” setting prevent damage during towing?
Some EVs offer a “tow mode” or specific neutral setting, but this does not always prevent damage from towing with drive wheels on the ground. These modes are typically for short-distance maneuvering, like moving the car onto a flatbed. Always consult your owner’s manual and prioritize lifting the drive wheels or using a flatbed for any significant towing.
Who should I call if my EV needs towing?
If your electric vehicle needs towing, contact a professional roadside assistance service or a reputable tow company. Clearly inform them that you have an electric vehicle and its drive configuration (FWD, RWD, AWD). They will dispatch the appropriate equipment, usually a flatbed tow truck, to ensure safe transport.
Certification: BSc in Mechanical Engineering
Education: Mechanical engineer
Lives In: 539 W Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75208, USA
Md Amir is an auto mechanic student and writer with over half a decade of experience in the automotive field. He has worked with top automotive brands such as Lexus, Quantum, and also owns two automotive blogs autocarneed.com and taxiwiz.com.