An electric car may look quiet and calm on the outside, but when it stops moving unexpectedly, the rules change fast. One wrong decision during towing can turn a simple roadside issue into an expensive repair. That is why so many drivers ask the same critical question before making the call: can you tow an electric car safely without causing damage?
At NERD Towing, we help drivers navigate these situations every day. Electric vehicles bring incredible benefits, but they also require specialized towing knowledge, equipment, and care. This guide breaks down exactly what you need to know before a tow truck arrives, so you can protect your vehicle, your battery, and your peace of mind.
Can You Tow an Electric Car the Same Way as a Gas Vehicle?
The short answer is no. While the goal of towing is the same, moving a vehicle from point A to point B, an electric vehicle is built differently from a traditional gas-powered car. The drivetrain, braking system, and battery layout all change how towing should be handled.
When people ask, can you tow an electric car, what they really need to understand is that electric motors are often directly connected to the wheels. If those wheels spin while the vehicle is off, it breaks internal components and can damage the battery system. This is why you should not tow your electric car using traditional methods meant for gas vehicles.
NERD Towing trains its operators to recognize these differences immediately. Knowing the make, model, and towing capabilities of your electric vehicle is the first step to preventing costly mistakes.
Why Towing an Electric Vehicle Is Different Than Towing Another Car
An electric vehicle is powered by a high-voltage battery rather than an engine and transmission. That battery controls everything from acceleration to braking to regenerative braking, which recaptures energy when slowing down.
If the wheels are allowed to roll freely during a tow, regenerative braking systems may activate unexpectedly. This creates resistance inside the motor and can cause internal wear or failure. Over time, or even during a single improper tow, it breaks components that are expensive and time-consuming to replace.
This is where professional towing services matter. NERD Towing understands how electric systems interact with towing equipment, ensuring your vehicle remains fully protected during transport.
Tow Methods That Can Damage an Electric Car
Improper towing is one of the biggest threats to electric cars on the road today. Many drivers assume a short tow will not hurt, but even a few miles can cause problems if the wrong method is used.
Here is where most damage occurs:
- Using a wheel-lift tow without disengaging the drivetrain
- Pulling the vehicle with wheels on the ground
- Attempting to tow with another car using straps or chains
- Ignoring manufacturer guidelines for weight and tow capacity
This is why NERD Towing emphasizes education as much as service. Understanding why certain methods are unsafe helps drivers avoid mistakes before roadside assistance arrives.
How Regenerative Braking Affects Towing Safety
Regenerative braking is one of the most valuable features of an electric car. It extends driving range by converting motion into stored energy. During towing, however, this system becomes a liability if not handled correctly.
When wheels rotate while the car is off, regenerative braking systems may still engage. This creates internal resistance that strains motors, braking components, and the battery. Over time, or under stress, it breaks sensitive electronic systems.
Professional operators at NERD Towing account for regenerative braking by choosing the correct towing approach every time. This attention to detail protects your vehicle from hidden damage that might not appear until weeks later.
Why a Flatbed Tow Is the Safest Option for Electric Vehicles
A flatbed tow is widely considered the safest and most reliable method for moving an electric vehicle. With all four wheels off the ground, there is no risk of drivetrain rotation or braking system interference.
Using a flatbed truck eliminates many of the dangers associated with improper towing. Loading it correctly, securing the vehicle, and distributing weight evenly are all essential steps in the process.
At NERD Towing, flatbed tow service is the preferred choice for electric and hybrid vehicles. Our equipment is designed to handle modern vehicle weight, battery placement, and sensitive undercarriage components without risk.
What About Dollies and Short Distance Towing?
Some drivers wonder if a dolly can be used for short distance towing. In limited cases, dollies may work if the drive wheels are completely off the ground. However, this requires precise knowledge of whether your electric vehicle is front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive.
Mistakes here are common. If even one powered wheel touches the road, it breaks internal components. Because of this risk, many manufacturers advise against dolly towing altogether.
NERD Towing evaluates each situation carefully. When there is any uncertainty, a flatbed tow is chosen to ensure total safety.
Popular Electric Models and Their Towing Needs
Different electric vehicles have different towing requirements. A Tesla, a Kia electric model, or a hybrid vehicle may each have unique instructions regarding towing capabilities, weight limits, and battery protection.
For example, some Tesla models require Transport Mode to be activated before loading. Others have strict warnings against pulling the vehicle with wheels on the ground. A Kia electric vehicle may have different braking and charging system considerations.
This is where experience matters. NERD Towing stays informed on manufacturer guidelines so every electric car we handle receives model-specific care.
When to Call Roadside Assistance for an Electric Vehicle
If your electric vehicle stops due to a dead car battery, charging issue, or system warning, calling professional roadside assistance is always the safest move. Trying to move the vehicle yourself or allowing an inexperienced operator to tow it can cause damage far beyond the original issue.
Whether the problem is reduced range, braking alerts, or electrical failure, NERD Towing provides towing services designed specifically for electric vehicles. We understand how to transport your car without compromising safety or performance.
Choosing the Right Tow Truck and Equipment
Not all tow trucks are created equal. Electric vehicles are often heavier due to battery weight, which affects tow capacity and loading procedures. Using the wrong equipment can stress suspension components or damage the battery housing.
NERD Towing invests in modern equipment designed for electric and hybrid vehicles. From flatbed trucks to specialized loading tools, our service is built around protecting your investment from start to finish.
Contact Us
When your electric car needs help, do not gamble with guesswork. Call NERD Towing, where smart towing meets modern technology. One call gets you safe transport, expert care, and total confidence every mile of the way.
