Electric cars are becoming increasingly common on London’s roads. From daily commutes and school runs to longer journeys, more drivers are choosing electric vehicles (EVs) as an alternative to traditional petrol and diesel cars.

However, just like conventional vehicles, electric cars can experience unexpected breakdowns. A flat 12V battery, charging fault, damaged tyre, electrical problem or completely discharged high-voltage battery can leave an EV unable to continue its journey.

But what happens when an electric car needs a tow? Is it safe to tow an EV in the same way as a petrol or diesel vehicle? And what should you do if your electric car breaks down in London?

In this guide, we explain how electric car recovery works, why specialist handling matters and what drivers should know before arranging a tow.

1. Can Electric Cars Be Towed?

Yes, electric cars can be recovered and transported, but they often require a different approach from conventional vehicles.

Many electric vehicles use regenerative braking and electric motors connected to the wheels. If the wheels rotate while the vehicle is being towed in a way not approved by the manufacturer, it can potentially damage the electric drive system.

For this reason, many electric cars should be transported using a recovery truck or flatbed rather than being towed with their wheels rolling on the road.

However, the correct recovery method depends on the make and model of the vehicle. Some manufacturers provide specific procedures for moving an EV over a short distance, while others require the vehicle to be transported with all four wheels off the ground.

Always follow the manufacturer’s recovery instructions.

2. Why Do Electric Cars Need Specialist Recovery?

Electric vehicles have different mechanical and electrical systems from petrol and diesel cars. Although the basic purpose of vehicle recovery is the same, EVs have additional considerations.

High-voltage battery systems

Electric cars use high-voltage battery packs to power their motors. These systems are designed with safety features, but damaged or incorrectly handled components can present serious risks.

Recovery operators should follow the manufacturer’s procedures and avoid interfering with high-voltage components.

Electric motors and transmission systems

Unlike conventional vehicles, electric cars do not generally have traditional multi-speed gearboxes. Their electric drive systems can be affected by incorrect towing methods.

Using an unsuitable towing technique may cause damage, so the vehicle’s approved recovery procedure should always be checked.

Regenerative braking

Many electric vehicles use regenerative braking to recover energy when slowing down. This system is connected to the electric drive system and is another reason why recovery instructions matter.

Vehicle weight

Electric cars can be heavier than comparable petrol or diesel vehicles because of their battery packs. Recovery equipment must therefore be suitable for the vehicle’s weight and dimensions.

3. What Are the Common Reasons an Electric Car Needs Recovery?

Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts than many conventional cars, but they can still develop faults or experience problems that require professional recovery.

Some common situations include:

A. Completely Discharged Battery

One of the most obvious reasons an electric car may need assistance is running out of charge.

Unlike petrol and diesel vehicles, electric cars cannot simply be refuelled at a nearby petrol station. If the battery reaches a critically low level and there is no suitable charging point nearby, recovery may be necessary.

How to reduce the risk:

• Check your battery level before longer journeys.
• Plan charging stops in advance.
• Use your vehicle’s remaining-range information as a guide rather than an absolute guarantee.
• Allow for additional energy consumption in cold weather, heavy traffic and at higher motorway speeds.
• Avoid regularly allowing the battery to become completely discharged.

B. 12V Battery Failure

Many electric vehicles have a separate 12V battery that powers systems such as vehicle electronics, control modules and locking mechanisms.

If this battery fails, the car may not start or enter its ready-to-drive mode, even when the main high-voltage battery has plenty of charge.

Warning signs may include:

• The vehicle will not unlock.
• Dashboard displays fail to operate.
• Electrical systems behave unusually.
• The car will not enter ready mode.

The correct procedure for checking or jump-starting the 12V system varies between EV models. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

C. Charging System Problems

An electric car may be unable to charge because of a problem with its charging port, onboard charger, charging cable or electrical system.

If the vehicle cannot accept a charge and its remaining battery range is insufficient, recovery may be needed.

Avoid repeatedly forcing a charging connector into place or attempting repairs to electrical components yourself.

D. Tyre Damage or Punctures

Electric cars can suffer punctures and tyre damage just like conventional vehicles.

Their weight and instant torque can also place particular demands on tyres, making regular inspections important.

A damaged tyre may leave the vehicle unsafe to drive, especially if there is no suitable spare wheel or the fitted tyre repair kit cannot be used.

E. Electrical or Motor Faults

Electric vehicles rely on complex electronic systems, sensors, control units and electric motors.

A warning message, reduced power or sudden loss of drive may indicate a fault that needs professional attention.

If your vehicle displays a serious warning or cannot be driven safely, stop in a safe location and arrange recovery.

F. Accident or Battery Damage

Following an accident, an electric vehicle may have damage to its battery enclosure or high-voltage electrical system.

Even if the vehicle appears drivable, hidden damage can create additional risks.

If an EV has been involved in a significant collision, follow emergency service advice and the manufacturer’s safety guidance. Do not attempt to inspect or handle damaged high-voltage components yourself.

4. How Is an Electric Car Safely Transported?

The recovery method depends on the vehicle’s design, condition and manufacturer instructions.

Flatbed recovery

A flatbed recovery truck is commonly used for transporting electric vehicles.

The vehicle is loaded onto the platform so that all four wheels are off the road during transport. This helps avoid unwanted movement through the electric drive system.

Flatbed recovery can be particularly appropriate when:

• The EV has completely run out of charge.
• There is a suspected motor or electrical fault.
• The vehicle has suffered accident damage.
• The manufacturer requires all four wheels to be off the ground.
• The vehicle cannot safely be moved under its own power.

Wheel-lift recovery

Some recovery situations may allow the use of specialist wheel-lift equipment, depending on the vehicle and the manufacturer’s instructions.

However, the recovery operator must make sure that the wheels and drivetrain are positioned correctly.

A wheel-lift method should never be assumed suitable for every electric vehicle.

Manufacturer-approved recovery mode

Some EVs have a transport mode, neutral mode or specific recovery setting. These features can help prepare the vehicle for approved movement.

The correct procedure differs between manufacturers, so the vehicle handbook should be consulted.

5. What Should You Do If Your Electric Car Breaks Down in London?

Breaking down in a busy city can be stressful, particularly if your vehicle suddenly loses power or stops charging.

If your electric car develops a problem, follow these steps:

1. Move somewhere safe if possible.

If the vehicle is still controllable, move it away from moving traffic and stop in a safe location.

2. Switch on your hazard warning lights.

Make your vehicle visible to other road users, especially if it has stopped in a potentially dangerous position.

3. Get yourself and passengers to safety.

If you can leave the vehicle safely, move away from traffic. On a motorway, follow the relevant motorway breakdown safety guidance. If you are in immediate danger, call 999.

4. Check the warning messages.

Look at the dashboard and note any warning lights or messages. Do not attempt to investigate high-voltage components.

5. Contact a suitable recovery service.

Explain that the vehicle is electric and provide its make and model. This helps the recovery operator consider the correct equipment and manufacturer’s recovery procedure.

6. Follow the recovery operator’s instructions.

Do not attempt to drag, push or tow the vehicle using an unsuitable method.

6. Can You Tow an Electric Car with Another Car?

In most cases, using another car to pull an electric vehicle along the road is not recommended unless the vehicle manufacturer specifically permits it.

Incorrect towing can damage the electric motor, drivetrain or other components.

If an electric car has broken down, a suitable recovery vehicle is generally the safer option. A professional recovery operator can establish the correct method based on the vehicle’s requirements.

Always check the owner’s handbook before attempting to move an EV.

7. What Information Should You Give the Recovery Company?

When arranging electric car recovery, providing accurate information can help the operator prepare.

Try to give the following details:

• Your vehicle’s make and model.
• Whether it is fully electric or a plug-in hybrid.
• Your current location in London.
• Whether the vehicle has completely lost power.
• The battery charge level, if known.
• Any warning messages displayed.
• Whether the vehicle has been involved in an accident.
• Whether the wheels are damaged or unable to turn.
• Any relevant information about the vehicle’s recovery or transport mode.

It is particularly important to mention any accident damage, battery warning or signs of smoke, unusual heat or unusual smells.

If you suspect battery damage or there are signs of fire or immediate danger, move away from the vehicle and call 999. Do not attempt to charge or handle it.

8. How Can You Prevent Electric Car Breakdowns?

Although no vehicle is completely immune to breakdowns, a few simple habits can help reduce the risk of unexpected problems.

Plan your charging

Check your battery level before setting off and identify suitable charging points along your route.

Look after the 12V battery

The 12V battery is essential for many vehicle systems. Pay attention to warning signs and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations.

Check your tyres regularly

Inspect tyre pressures, tread depth and sidewalls. Use the pressure recommendations provided by the manufacturer.

Pay attention to warning messages

Do not ignore battery, motor, charging or electrical warnings. Arrange an inspection if a warning persists or indicates a serious fault.

Follow the servicing schedule

Electric vehicles still require maintenance. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for brakes, tyres, suspension, coolant systems where fitted, and other relevant components.

Understand your vehicle’s recovery instructions

Knowing how your particular EV should be transported can make a stressful breakdown easier to manage.

9. 24-Hour Electric Car Recovery in London

An electric car breakdown can happen at any time, whether you are travelling through central London, commuting across the city or returning home after a long journey.

If your EV cannot continue safely, it is important to arrange suitable recovery rather than attempting to tow it using an unsuitable method.

White Recovery provides 24-hour car and van recovery in London, helping drivers when their vehicles become stranded due to breakdowns and other roadside problems.

When requesting assistance for an electric vehicle, let the recovery team know that it is an EV and provide the make and model. This information helps establish the appropriate recovery and transportation requirements.

Whether your electric car has run out of charge, developed an electrical fault or suffered a mechanical problem, professional recovery can help transport it to a suitable destination for further attention.

Frequently Asked Questions About Electric Car Towing

Can an electric car be towed with its wheels on the ground?

It depends on the make and model. Many electric vehicles must not be towed with their driven wheels rotating because this can damage the drivetrain. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Do electric cars need flatbed recovery?

Many electric cars are best transported on a flatbed recovery truck, particularly when they have a drivetrain fault, a completely discharged battery or accident damage. However, the correct method depends on the manufacturer’s requirements.

What happens if an electric car runs out of battery?

If the vehicle cannot reach a charging point, it may need to be transported to a suitable charging location or another destination. The appropriate option depends on the vehicle and the circumstances.

Can you jump-start an electric car?

Some electric vehicles have a conventional 12V battery that may be jump-started using a manufacturer-approved procedure. This does not mean the high-voltage traction battery can be jump-started. Always consult the vehicle handbook.

Is electric car recovery different from petrol or diesel car recovery?

Yes. Electric vehicles have high-voltage battery systems, electric motors and regenerative braking systems that require specific handling considerations. The recovery method must be suitable for the particular vehicle.

Can a damaged electric car battery be dangerous?

Yes. A damaged high-voltage battery can present serious risks, including electric shock and fire. Do not touch or attempt to repair damaged battery components. Move away if there are signs of smoke, unusual heat or fire and call 999.

Final Thoughts

Electric vehicles offer many benefits, but they still need reliable breakdown and recovery support when something goes wrong.

Whether the problem involves a discharged battery, a faulty 12V system, tyre damage, a charging issue or an electrical fault, the most important thing is to make sure the vehicle is recovered using an appropriate method.

Unlike many conventional cars, electric vehicles cannot always be towed with their wheels on the road. Following the manufacturer’s recovery instructions and using suitable equipment can help prevent further damage.

If your electric car breaks down in London, White Recovery provides 24-hour car and van recovery to help when you need assistance. Always prioritise safety and arrange suitable professional recovery if your EV cannot continue its journey.