Can You Tow an Electric Car? Everything You Need to Know

Unlock the Power of EV Towing: Essential Guidelines and Best Practices for Hauling Electric Vehicles Safely and Efficiently

By Stephanie Richards, CLFP| Jul 25, 2023| 5002 Views
3 MIN
Can You Tow an Electric Car? Everything You Need to Know

For towers, staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in automotive technology is crucial. With the growing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs), understanding the intricacies of towing these eco-friendly automobiles is key towing future customers.

In this article…

  1. Can You Tow an EV?
  2. What Should You Tow an EV With?
  3. How is Towing an EV Different From Towing a Regular Car?
  4. Getting the Right Truck to Tow an EV

Can You Tow an EV?

Yes, it is possible to tow an electric vehicle, but there are certain considerations and limitations to keep in mind.

Electric vehicles (EVs) have a different drivetrain and power source compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, which affects how they should be towed.

Important Factors to Consider

  • Vehicle Weight. When towing an electric vehicle, it is crucial to be mindful of the weight being towed. Electric vehicles typically have large and heavy battery packs that affect their overall weight distribution. Exceeding the recommended towing capacity can put excessive strain on you truck drivetrain, suspension, and brakes, potentially causing damage.
  • Safety. Some EVs have specific procedures that need to be followed when towing to prevent damage to the vehicle or the battery. For some EV models, it’s critical the tires don’t touch the ground while being towed.

Let’s look at specific brands.

Can you tow a Tesla?

Yes, you can tow a Tesla, but Tesla has strict instructions for transporters.

Tesla instructs transporters to tow with all four tires off the ground because their EVs generate power when the wheels spin. It is important that the tires are unable to spin at any time during transport.

What Should You Tow an EV With?

In order to safely transport an electronic vehicle, it is recommended to follow approved methods. Some EV manufacturers like Tesla outline the approved methods for transporting in the car’s owner manual.

Tesla’s Approved Methods for Transporting

According to Tesla’s owner manual, a flatbed truck is the recommended method of transporting a Tesla. This ensures the tires never spin while being moved.

A yellow flatnose flatbed truck tows a blue tesla electric vehicle.

If a flatbed is not available, then Tesla recommends using wheel lifts and dollies to ensure all four wheels are off the ground during transport. The vehicle must be faced forward so the front wheels are lifted and the rear wheel are on dollies.

A red light-duty tow truck tows a blue Tesla electric vehicle with wheel dollies to prevent the EV's wheels from touching the ground.

Activate the EV’s Transport Mode

In addition, Tesla recommends enabling Transport Mode before winching their vehicles onto a flatbed truck. This mode is intended to free-roll the vehicle a very short distance (less than 10 meters) and reposition the vehicle out of a parking space. This mode disengages the parking brake when low voltage power is available and a key is detected.

Then winch the EV onto your flatbed tow truck.

How is Towing an EV Different From Towing a Regular Car?

  • Weight considerations.
  • Regenerative braking.
  • Transmission considerations.
  • Battery considerations.

Getting the Right Flatbed Tow Truck to Tow an EV

At Beacon Funding, we understand the importance of having the right flatbed or wheel lift and dollies tow truck to tow electric vehicles (EVs) and expand your business fleet. That’s why we offer tow truck financing solutions tailored to your needs. With our financing options, you can get the capital you need to invest in the right tow truck that can handle EV towing, no matter their size.

Get Your Next Truck With an Expert Lender

By partnering with Beacon Funding, you can seize the opportunity in the growing market of EV towing. Our financing solutions empower you to acquire the perfect truck that meets your EV towing requirements. It’s a smart move that can help you boost your revenue by tapping into the increasing demand for EV towing services.

GET STARTED NOW

Expanding your fleet with our financing options is a game-changer. You can take on more EV towing jobs, increase your earning potential, and keep up with the evolving automotive landscape. Plus, our flexible financing ensures that you can get the right tow truck without straining your cash flow.

At Beacon Funding, we’re here to support your business growth and help you make the most of the opportunities in EV towing. Let us assist you in getting the perfect flatbed or wheel lift and dollies tow truck through our hassle-free financing process. Get in touch with us today and take your towing business to the next level!

 Stephanie Richards, CLFP
Stephanie Richards, CLFP

P: 847.627.1614 |  ESchedule A Meeting with Me

Stephanie is a Certified Lease and Finance Professional (CLFP) that started with Beacon as a Business Development Consultant in 2012.



07/25/2023

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