Can You Tow an Electric Vehicle?

Many drivers wonder, can you tow an electric vehicle safely without causing expensive damage? The answer depends on the vehicle's design. Unlike conventional cars with internal combustion engines, many EVs use electric motors that remain connected to the wheels. Because of this, improper electric vehicle towing can damage the drivetrain or battery system.

Before towing any EV, always consult the manufacturer's recommendations and understand the vehicle's approved recovery methods.

Not every EV can be towed the same way

The correct towing procedure depends on the drivetrain, motor configuration, and manufacturer guidelines.

Can You Tow an Electric Vehicle on Its Wheels?

For many electric vehicles, the answer is no. Unlike traditional vehicles that can often be towed with two wheels on the ground, many EVs should not be moved this way because the electric motor may continue rotating even when the vehicle is switched off.

If the motor generates electricity while being towed, it may damage components that are not designed for unpowered operation. This is why manufacturers often recommend transporting EVs with all four wheels off the ground.

Flatbed towing is usually the safest option

Using a flatbed truck minimizes the risk of damaging the electric drivetrain.

Understanding Electric Vehicle Towing Capacity

When discussing electric vehicle towing capacity, it's important to distinguish between a vehicle's ability to tow a trailer and the process of towing the vehicle itself.

Many modern EVs have impressive towing ratings thanks to their instant torque and powerful electric motors. However, towing capacity varies significantly depending on battery size, cooling systems, chassis design, and manufacturer specifications.

The following factors influence electric vehicle towing capacity:

• vehicle weight
• battery and cooling system
• motor configuration
• manufacturer-approved tow rating

Always follow the official towing limits instead of relying on estimates or ratings from similar models.

Best Methods for Electric Vehicle Towing

Professional towing companies typically use several methods depending on the situation.

A flatbed truck remains the preferred solution because it completely lifts the vehicle off the road. Wheel-lift equipment may be acceptable for certain vehicles if approved by the manufacturer, while dollies can sometimes be used for specific drivetrain configurations.

Choosing the correct electric vehicle towing method reduces the likelihood of unnecessary repairs and helps protect expensive drivetrain components.

Professional equipment matters

Using the right recovery equipment is often just as important as following the manufacturer's instructions.

What to Do Before Your EV Is Towed

If your electric vehicle requires roadside assistance, there are several simple steps that can help ensure safe transportation.

Before the tow begins:

• activate Transport or Tow Mode if available
• place the vehicle in Neutral if instructed by the manufacturer
• disable the parking brake if required
• inform the towing company that the vehicle is electric

Following these recommendations helps the towing operator choose the safest loading procedure.

Common Electric Vehicle Towing Mistakes

The most common towing problems occur when drivers assume an EV can be treated like a conventional vehicle. Using the wrong towing method, ignoring manufacturer instructions, or dragging the vehicle with the drive wheels on the ground can result in costly repairs.

Some owners also confuse electric vehicle towing capacity with the vehicle's recovery procedures. Even an EV capable of towing a heavy trailer may still require flatbed transportation when it needs to be towed itself.

Manufacturer guidance should always come first

Every EV is engineered differently, making the owner's manual the most reliable source of towing information.

Planning Ahead for Roadside Emergencies

Understanding electric vehicle towing procedures before an emergency happens can save time, reduce stress, and help avoid unnecessary damage. Keeping roadside assistance contact information readily available and knowing whether your vehicle includes a dedicated Tow Mode allows both drivers and towing professionals to respond more efficiently. A few minutes spent reviewing the owner's manual today may prevent expensive repairs in the future.

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