Guide · 4 min read
Why Electric Vehicles Need Flatbed Towing
An EV's motors and regenerative systems make dragging the drive wheels risky. Here is why a flatbed is the safe default.
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By MyTowPublished 4 min read
Key takeaways
- Most electric vehicles should be towed on a flatbed with all four wheels off the ground.
- Check the owner's manual; some vehicles have specific tow instructions or restrictions.
- Tell dispatch your vehicle is electric or hybrid and its drivetrain when you request.
- Never tow an EV with the drive wheels on the road unless the manufacturer explicitly allows it.
Why EVs are different
In a conventional car, the transmission can often be shifted to neutral so the wheels roll freely. Many electric vehicles have motors directly connected to the wheels through fixed gearing. Rolling the drive wheels while the vehicle is switched off can spin the motor, which may generate electricity and can damage the powertrain or related systems.
Because of this, many manufacturers instruct owners to tow on a flatbed or with the drive wheels lifted.
Hybrids and all-wheel-drive
Hybrids vary: some can be towed with specific wheels off the ground, others require a flatbed. All-wheel-drive electric vehicles generally need all four wheels lifted. Always follow the owner's manual.
Why a flatbed is the safe default
- All four wheels stay off the pavement, protecting motors and drivetrain
- No wheels turn, so no regenerative effect or motor spinning
- Low-clearance and heavy vehicles can be loaded using a gradual ramp approach
- The vehicle is secured at manufacturer-approved points
What to do before the tow
- Switch the vehicle off and, if applicable, put it into the transport or tow mode described in the manual
- Locate the tow or tie-down points in the owner's manual
- Tell dispatch the vehicle is electric or hybrid, the make and model, and whether it is all-wheel-drive
- Mention if the vehicle will not shift out of Park, since the operator may need special equipment
- Take photos of the vehicle before the hookup
What if the charge is empty?
A drained main battery does not change the towing rule. If the vehicle is stuck in Park because of a low 12-volt battery, a battery boost may release it. In many cases the operator can use equipment designed to move a vehicle that will not roll.
Electric vehicle towing and range
Do not try to drive an EV to a charger with a warning light that says to stop. If you are out of range, request a flatbed tow to a charging location or a repair facility rather than risking a breakdown in traffic.
Common problems and solutions
| Problem | What to do |
|---|---|
| EV will not start or shift | Request a flatbed tow and tell dispatch the vehicle is electric. |
| Ran out of charge on the road | Request a flatbed tow to a charger or repair facility. |
| Vehicle stuck in Park | Check whether a 12-volt battery boost releases it, or request a flatbed with the right equipment. |
| Hybrid with unclear instructions | Check the manual and tell dispatch the make and model; a flatbed is the safe default. |
Need towing or roadside help now?
Depending on your situation, explore flatbed towing, breakdown towing or luxury & exotic transport. MyTow is a digital app where you can request a tow or roadside assistance in less than one minute. This is the time to submit your request, not a truck arrival estimate. Arrival depends on your location, traffic and dispatch coverage.
Review towing and roadside assistance pricing factors, how MyTow’s online request process works and roadside safety tips.
This guide is general information, not legal or mechanical advice. In an emergency, call 911.
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Questions and answers
Can an electric car be towed on two wheels?
Generally not. Many EVs have drive motors connected to the wheels, so towing with those wheels on the road can damage the powertrain. A flatbed is the usual requirement.
Do hybrids need a flatbed too?
It varies by model. Check the owner's manual; a flatbed is the safe default when in doubt.
What should I tell dispatch if my car is electric?
State that it is electric or hybrid, the make and model, whether it is all-wheel-drive and whether it will shift out of Park.
Does an EV with a flat battery tow differently?
No. The towing rule is the same. A flatbed with all four wheels off the ground protects the drivetrain regardless of charge level.
Can a jump start fix an EV that will not move?
Sometimes, if the 12-volt battery is the problem, since it powers the computers that release Park. Check the manual or request a professional boost.
What is "Why Electric Vehicles Need Flatbed Towing" about?
An EV's motors and regenerative systems make dragging the drive wheels risky. Here is why a flatbed is the safe default.
What are the key points in "Why Electric Vehicles Need Flatbed Towing"?
Most electric vehicles should be towed on a flatbed with all four wheels off the ground. Check the owner's manual; some vehicles have specific tow instructions or restrictions. Tell dispatch your vehicle is electric or hybrid and its drivetrain when you request. Never tow an EV with the drive wheels on the road unless the manufacturer explicitly allows it.
When should I call 911 instead of requesting a tow?
If anyone is injured, there is a fire, or your vehicle is blocking a live lane, call 911 first. Request a tow once everyone is safe.
Which MyTow services relate to this guide?
flatbed towing, breakdown towing, luxury & exotic transport. Each has its own page with details, coverage and pricing factors.
How do I request help from MyTow?
Open the MyTow digital app at https://app.mytow.ca/request or call dispatch at (647) 633-8885. MyTow is a digital app where you can request a tow or roadside assistance in less than one minute. This is the time to submit your request, not a truck arrival estimate. Arrival depends on your location, traffic and dispatch coverage.
Request towing or roadside help with MyTow
MyTow is a digital app where you can request a tow or roadside assistance in less than one minute. This is the time to submit your request, not a truck arrival estimate. Arrival depends on your location, traffic and dispatch coverage.
