EV Towing in the UK: The New Roadside Challenge

As electric vehicles (EVs) rapidly gain popularity across the UK, a new challenge emerges for roadside assistance and towing companies. Towing an EV isn't as straightforward as hauling a petrol or diesel car. It requires new skills, tools, and awareness.

⚡ Why Towing EVs Is Different

EVs have complex drivetrains, regenerative braking systems, and large, high-voltage batteries. These features make traditional flatbed or dolly towing potentially risky or even damaging.

Risks of Improper Towing:

  • Damage to the electric motor or transmission
  • Regenerative braking systems overheating
  • Fire hazards from compromised batteries

🚨 Recent Incidents Highlight the Problem

In 2024, a popular UK roadside service faced scrutiny after improperly towing a Tesla Model 3, causing £3,500 in drivetrain damage. This sparked industry-wide discussions on towing standards for EVs.

🧰 New Tools and Training for EV Towing

To handle EVs safely, tow operators now need:

  • Flatbed trucks with winches and low-angle ramps
  • Non-conductive gloves and safety gear
  • Digital voltage readers
  • EV mode lock instructions (provided by OEMs)

🧑‍🏫 Training for the Future

Several UK organisations now offer EV-specific training:

  • IMI (Institute of the Motor Industry): EV-safe technician certification
  • AA and RAC: Internal programs for EV recovery
  • Highways England: Roadside recovery EV protocols

🔌 Breakdown Scenarios for EVs

  1. Battery Depletion – Vehicle is stranded due to lack of charge
  2. System Failure – Motor or software error prevents movement
  3. Accidents – High-voltage batteries pose fire risks

🏙️ Urban vs Rural Response Gaps

Urban areas like London and Manchester have more EV-qualified operators, but rural regions still lag behind, increasing wait times and the risk of mishandling.

📱 Real-Time EV Diagnostics

Some newer platforms like Ohme and EV8 Switch integrate with EVs to:

  • Send diagnostic alerts to recovery teams
  • Enable remote battery checks
  • Suggest safe towing procedures

📈 EV Adoption Rising

According to the UK Department for Transport:

  • Over 900,000 EVs are on UK roads as of 2025
  • EVs account for 32% of all new car sales
  • Public charging points exceed 60,000

This exponential growth means towing services must adapt—or fall behind.

🧾 What Drivers Should Know

If you're an EV driver:

  • Check if your roadside provider supports EV towing
  • Know how to activate your car's tow mode
  • Avoid letting battery fall below 5% regularly
  • Keep a portable EV charger for emergencies

🔄 Opportunities for Mobile Mechanics

EV roadside issues aren’t always about towing. Many issues can be handled by mobile mechanics equipped for:

  • Software resets
  • 12V battery replacements
  • Cooling system checks
  • Charging port diagnostics

💡 Innovation in TowTech

Emerging UK startups are experimenting with:

  • Battery-to-battery roadside chargers
  • Drone-delivered emergency power kits
  • Autonomous tow dollies for tight urban spaces

🌍 Sustainability Bonus

EV-focused roadside support helps reduce environmental impact further:

  • No idling during repairs
  • Lightweight equipment reduces fuel usage
  • On-demand service limits unnecessary dispatches

✅ Final Thoughts

Towing in the UK is undergoing a silent revolution, thanks to the EV boom. For drivers, mechanics, and tow companies, the key takeaway is clear: adapt to the new standards or risk becoming obsolete. As EVs evolve, so too must the services that keep them moving.