Towing an Electric Vehicle (EV): What You Need to Know

1. Towing an Electric Vehicle (EV): What You Need to Know The future of driving is here, and it’s electric. With more EVs hitting the road every day, drivers are enjoying instant torque, quiet rides, and zero tailpipe emissions. But as with any vehicle, unexpected breakdowns or accidents can happen. When they do, knowing how to handle the situation is crucial, especially for an electric car. Towing an EV is a specialized task that requires more than a simple hook and chain. Whether you’re an EV owner or simply curious, understanding the right procedures can save you from costly damage. This guide will walk you through the specifics of EV towing, from the technical reasons behind proper handling to finding the right Roadside Assistance Service in Orlando that understands these unique needs.

2. Why Towing an EV is Different from a Gas Car The primary reason you can’t tow an EV like a traditional car is the fundamental difference in its drivetrain. Internal combustion engine (ICE) cars have a transmission with a neutral gear that allows the wheels to spin freely, disconnected from the engine. EVs, however, have their electric motor directly connected to the wheels. When an EV’s wheels turn, even if the car is “off,” the electric motor acts as a generator. This process is known as regenerative braking, where kinetic energy from the spinning wheels is converted back into electricity to recharge the battery. If an EV is towed with its wheels on the ground, this unintended power generation can damage the delicate electrical systems, overheat the motor, and potentially harm the battery. In some cases, it can even cause irreparable damage that voids the manufacturer’s warranty. Also Read : Differences Between Flatbed and Wheel Lift Tow Trucks The Gold Standard: Why Flatbed Towing is Essential To completely avoid the risks associated with improper towing, the safest and most recommended method for transporting an electric vehicle is with a flatbed tow truck. This method ensures that all four of the vehicle’s wheels are lifted completely off the ground and secured on a flat platform for transport. This is the only way to guarantee that the wheels will not rotate, thus preventing the regenerative braking system from activating. Professional flatbed towing also ensures the vehicle’s weight is evenly distributed, protecting the low-slung, heavy battery pack and the chassis from unnecessary stress. When you call for Orlando towing services, always specify that you have an electric vehicle and require a flatbed. A reputable company will understand this crucial requirement and dispatch the correct equipment. Essential Tips for EV Owners In an emergency, knowing what to do can make all the difference. Here are a few key steps to take if your EV needs a tow:  Consult Your Owner’s Manual: Every EV model has specific towing instructions. Some vehicles, like certain Tesla models, have a dedicated “Transport Mode” that needs to be activated before towing. This mode may disable the regenerative braking or electronic parking brake.  Locate Towing Points: Your owner’s manual will also show you the designated towing or winching points on the vehicle’s chassis. Using these specific points prevents damage to the body or undercarriage, particularly around the sensitive battery area.  Communicate with the Towing Company: When you call for a tow, inform the dispatcher that you are driving an electric vehicle. This allows them to send a qualified driver with the proper flatbed equipment, saving you time and preventing a potentially dangerous situation. Fastest Towing Company: Your Go-To for Orlando’s EV Towing Needs When you need roadside assistance service Orlando, you want a team that is not only fast and reliable but also knowledgeable about the specific needs of modern vehicles. For over 25 years, Fastest Towing

3. Company has been a trusted specialist in the area, offering a full range of services from jump starts and tire changes to professional towing. Understanding the unique requirements of EVs is part of our commitment to customer safety and satisfaction. The team at Fastest Towing Company is equipped and trained to handle electric vehicles with the care they require, prioritizing a flatbed tow to ensure your car’s electrical systems and battery remain safe. When you find yourself in a bind on the roads of Orlando, Apopka, Winter Garden, or Maitland, calling Fastest Towing Company is the smartest decision you can make. Conclusion While electric vehicles are revolutionizing the way we drive, they come with a new set of considerations, especially when it comes to breakdowns. Knowing the proper procedure for towing—primarily, insisting on a flatbed tow truck—is the single most important piece of information for any EV owner. By preparing for these situations and having a trusted provider like Fastest Towing Company on speed dial, you can drive your electric vehicle with peace of mind, knowing that you’re ready for whatever the road throws at you. Resource: Towing an Electric Vehicle (EV): What You Need to Know