Electric vehicles are becoming an increasingly common sight on Lithuanian roads, which has led to a growing number of questions about what to do if an electric vehicle breaks down or is involved in a traffic accident. One of the most common questions is— Can an electric car be towed?
The short answer is— Yes, an electric car can be transported by a tow truck., but it is important to choose the right method of transportation and follow the specific manufacturer's recommendations.
When does an electric car need a tow truck?
A tow truck may be needed in a variety of situations:
- The electric car won't start at all;
- the high-voltage battery ran out of power;
- The car was involved in a traffic accident;
- damaged wheels or chassis;
- the car can no longer be driven safely;
- There was a power system failure;
- The car is stuck and cannot be pulled out;
- You need to take the car to a repair shop.
After an accident, it is especially important not to attempt to drive the vehicle on your own if the undercarriage, the battery compartment, or other serious damage is visible.
How is an electric car transported?
The method of transporting an electric vehicle depends on the specific model and its condition. In most cases, the safest option is— Fully load the car onto the tow truck's platform.
This means that the wheels of an electric car do not touch the road, and the car is not propelled in the same way as a conventional car.
Some electric vehicle manufacturers allow the vehicle to be transported with the wheels in contact with the road surface under certain conditions, but this depends on the specific model. Therefore, it is always a good idea to consult the vehicle’s owner’s manual before transporting it.
Can an electric car be towed with a rope?
Not always. Electric vehicles may be subject to specific transportation requirements, so You shouldn't tow an electric car with a rope or a flexible connector, unless the manufacturer explicitly states otherwise.
Improper transportation can damage the electric motor, the drive system, or other vehicle components.
If you have any doubts, the safest course of action is to call a professional tow truck operator immediately and let them know that the vehicle is an electric car.
What should you do if your electric car is involved in an accident?
After a traffic accident, an electric vehicle should be inspected with particular care. The high-voltage battery is usually located in the underbody of the vehicle, so a strong impact to the lower part of the vehicle can have significant consequences.
If, after an accident, you notice:
- a severely deformed car undercarriage;
- battery damage;
- smoke;
- an unusual smell;
- fluid leak;
- warnings about a high-voltage system failure,
You should not try to start the car or repair it yourself. First, ensure everyone's safety and contact professionals.
Is it possible to tow an electric car with a dead battery?
Yes. A completely dead battery is one of the reasons an electric car might need to be towed.
If an electric vehicle can no longer reach a charging station, it can be towed to a suitable charging location, a car repair shop, or another location of your choice.
It is important not to confuse a standard 12-volt battery with the main high-voltage battery. An electric vehicle has different electrical systems, so the solution to the problem depends on which system has failed.
How do I call an electric car tow truck in Vilnius?
When you call a tow truck, tell them right away that you need to have the vehicle transported elektromobilį. Please also specify the make and model of the car, its exact location, and its condition.
If your electric vehicle has been in an accident or has damaged wheels, please be sure to let us know before you arrive. This will help us select the appropriate transportation equipment.
AutoKaput provides towing and roadside assistance services in Vilnius, the Vilnius District, and throughout Lithuania 24/7. If you need to have an electric vehicle transported, you can find more information at On the AutoKaput website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can all electric cars be towed by a tow truck?
Yes, but the specific method of transport depends on the car model and its condition. The safest option is often transport on a flatbed.
Can an electric car be towed?
It depends on the specific model and the manufacturer's instructions. If you're not sure, it's better not to tow the car with a rope and call a tow truck instead.
Can an electric car be towed after an accident?
Yes. If the car is no longer safe to drive, it can be transported by a tow truck. You must provide information about the nature of the accident and the damage to the car when ordering the service.
Can an electric car be towed if the battery is dead?
Yes. If an electric vehicle can no longer reach a charging station, it can be towed to a charging location, a car repair shop, or another location of your choice.
The most important thing is to entrust the transport of your electric vehicle to specialists and choose a method that meets the specific requirements of the vehicle’s manufacturer.
