Electric cars are wonderfully simple to drive, but when one stops, it needs handling differently to a petrol or diesel. Here’s what to know.
Out of charge
Unlike running out of fuel, you can’t just bring a can of charge to the roadside. A flat EV needs recovering to a charge point — there’s no quick roadside top-up.
It must go on a flatbed
Most EVs can’t be flat-towed — towing with the drive wheels turning can damage the motor. The safe way is a flatbed with all wheels off the ground, which is exactly how we move them. (More in our EV transport guide.)
Flat 12V battery
EVs still have a small 12V battery for the door locks, brakes and electronics — and if that dies, the car can lock up completely, unresponsive even with charge in the main pack. It’s a common issue, and the right winching kit gets it loaded safely.
EV stopped or flat? Call 07301 118118 — 24/7, nationwide. We recover electric and hybrid cars every day.