How to Tow an Electric Vehicle When It Runs Out of Power?

[McTanner]

You can call the insurance company's rescue hotline, but under normal circumstances, this is considered a human-caused issue rather than a vehicle malfunction, and the owner will need to pay for the towing service. In addition to the conventional method of calling the insurance company's rescue hotline, electric vehicle brands also provide free towing and rescue services for owners when the vehicle's power battery runs out of charge.

[McMalachi]

That time when my electric car ran out of power, I panicked. I happened to be on the highway, so I quickly moved the car to the emergency lane and turned on the hazard lights. You can’t just tow it anyhow—I remembered the manual said the electric motor is easily damaged. I called for rescue and requested a flatbed tow truck, but they sent a big truck that lifted the entire car up and transported it away. It took over an hour to get to the charging station. The whole time, I sat in the passenger seat chatting with the driver and learned a lot: unlike fuel-powered cars, when an electric car’s battery is depleted, its mechanical systems are more fragile, and towing it improperly can damage the drive components. Since then, I’ve made it a habit to check the battery level before long trips, installed an app for reminders, and avoided getting stranded again. Regular maintenance is also important—keeping the battery healthy helps prevent mishaps.

[VanTalia]

As a long-time EV user, I emphasize that towing safety comes first. Never tow an electric vehicle like a conventional car when it runs out of power, as this can damage both the drive shaft and battery. If you find yourself with a depleted battery, first park in a safe location with hazard lights on, and when calling for roadside assistance, explicitly request a flatbed tow truck. I once helped a neighbor in a similar situation where the rescue team used professional equipment to prevent secondary damage to the vehicle. The key is to wait patiently and avoid trying to save money or time by towing it yourself. Long-term advice: When planning your trip, check charging stations along the route and set low battery warnings to significantly reduce the risk of breakdowns.

[BrielleLee]

Towing an electric vehicle (EV) with a dead battery involves technical nuances. Unlike internal combustion engines, forcibly towing an EV may turn its motor into a generator, potentially damaging components. Most models require flatbed towing to avoid rotational damage. It's advisable to consult the manual immediately after parking—some allow low-speed towing, but don't take risks. Keeping up with industry news, I've learned that professional rescue is the only safe option; cutting corners isn't wise. Monitoring battery status before trips is a smart habit that significantly reduces the likelihood of issues.