Can an Electric Vehicle Be Towed with a Rope When Out of Battery?
3 Answers
An electric vehicle can be towed with a rope when out of battery because it is driven by an electric motor. In this case, simply shift the gear to N (Neutral) to enable towing. The primary requirement for towing an electric vehicle is the ability to shift into N gear. If it cannot be shifted into Neutral (N), towing with a rope is not possible, regardless of the distance. If it can be shifted into N gear, towing is permissible. Jump Start: A jump start requires another vehicle nearby and the use of jumper cables to start the car by connecting the batteries. The key here is to have a good understanding of the battery structure and the positive and negative terminals. Tow Start: Similar to push starting, a tow start relies on another vehicle pulling the dead electric vehicle with a rope. The leading vehicle then starts, which helps the following vehicle to start. Push Start: Push starting is the most familiar method, but it is not recommended for frequent use as it can cause significant damage to the engine and clutch, especially in automatic transmission vehicles. Therefore, this method is not advisable.
Having run an auto repair shop for over a decade, I've seen countless cases of electric vehicles being towed incorrectly. Never use a rope to tow them. Unlike gasoline engines that idle when stationary, an EV's motor starts generating electricity as soon as the wheels turn. This excess electricity has nowhere to go and can fry internal circuit boards or damage the battery - repairs can easily cost tens of thousands. Some vehicles with regenerative braking systems may experience gear lock or accelerated tire wear during improper towing. The safest approach is to stop immediately and call for professional flatbed towing service, which protects the chassis and motor from tow rope accidents. Always monitor your charge gauge, and if running low, prioritize finding a charging station or using a mobile app to request assistance rather than risking costly damage to save a few bucks.
I thought about this when I just got my driver's license. My friend's old electric car ran out of battery, and he wanted to tow it with a rope. I said absolutely not. The motor in an electric car is very sensitive during operation. Being towed forces it to work, which can cause overheating or short circuits, leading to permanent damage. I suggested carrying an emergency power bank or joining the manufacturer's roadside assistance program. For towing, it's best to choose professional services—they use wheel-locking frames to lift and transport the car, avoiding any rotation issues. Simply put, don't use makeshift methods. Protecting your beloved car and ensuring road safety is more important.
