In recent years, more people are buying and driving electric vehicles (EV). They offer better performance and eco-friendly benefits. While EVs are more reliable and technologically advanced than conventional cars, they still break down. They have moving parts, tires, and batteries that might fail unexpectedly.
When this happens, don’t panic! We have compiled all the information about towing an electric or hybrid vehicle with ease.
Reasons for Electric Car Towing
Yes, electric vehicles are the future—but they aren’t indestructible. Your EV might act up top, which means they need a tow. Here are a few reasons why your electric car may need a towing service:
Flat Tire
This is a common problem for electric vehicles. Like internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, electric cars need optimal air pressure. If tire pressure is too low or too much, premature wear might happen. You can’t fix your flat tire because most EVs don’t come with a spare tire. This only means that you can’t resolve this issue on your own. It’s better to call in a towing company during this kind of scenario.
Battery Problems
A dead battery is one of the main issues of EVs. Too much heat or cold exposure will cause the battery to deteriorate. Aside from this, your electric car might stall once you forgot to charge it. When you run out of battery charge, your car will stop running completely. Towing service is needed to bring your EV to the nearest public charge point.
Brake Issues
Your electric car’s brakes should also be maintained like other fuel-powered vehicles. The brake fluid should be changed regularly. This ensures that the brake system is functioning well. If there are signs of brake problems, call a towing provider who will take you to a repair shop for EV and hybrid cars.
How You Can Prepare For Electric Car Towing
With conventional cars, you can simply hook it to another car or a towing dolly. The car will stay neutral as the wheels are off the ground. However, this isn’t recommended for EVs and hybrid cars. Here are the things you can do if your EV stops running:
Set to Transport or Tow Mode
Not all electric vehicles have actual neutral gear. But, EVs have a transport or tow mode that acts as a neutral. You can use this when loading the vehicle onto the flatbed truck. For some EVs, the transport mode also limits the speed output to prevent accidents.
Hire a Reliable Towing Company
If you are getting your EV towed, make sure you’re getting the right towing service. Do not drag your EV down the road using a hook or towing dolly. This will damage the drivetrain, motor, control units, and other parts. Soon enough, your EV or hybrid will be damaged.
Many electric car manufacturers recommend flatbed towing to prevent any kind of damage.
Flatbed tow trucks are safer because they keep the electric vehicle completely off the road throughout the transport. With flatbed towing, the tires are protected from uneven wear and tear. This means that your EV is protected and guaranteed to remain in tiptop condition. Make sure you have a contact number of a towing company that offers the right kind of tow service.
Get Portable Charging Systems
Instead of getting your electric car towed, you can look for a mobile charging truck. This is an alternative when you’re dealing with a drained battery. Charging trucks have generators that provide a fast charge on the go. Mobile charging units allow you to charge up to 80 kilowatts, which is enough to run the EV for at least one mile.
You may also ask towing providers if they have a mobile charging truck for electric vehicles. However, very few companies offer this kind of service. When there are no other options available, simply have it towed by a flatbed tow truck.
Need Towing Service?
At Allentown Towing Company, we can tow and haul almost all kinds of vehicles. It doesn’t matter if you have an electric car or a classic one. Our highly experienced team will address your concerns promptly. Get in touch with us to learn about our full list of towing services. We offer emergency towing, lockout services, heavy-duty towing, and many more. We’ll treat your car like our own!