EV Technology

Can You Tow an Electric Vehicle? The Essential UK Driver Guide

With EV ownership booming across Kent, many drivers do not realize that conventional rope or dolly towing can destroy an electric vehicle powertrain. Here is why flatbed recovery is mandatory.

By Senior Recovery Technician Published: August 2, 2026 4 min read
Can You Tow an Electric Vehicle? The Essential UK Driver Guide

Unlike conventional internal combustion vehicles, electric cars like Tesla, Polestar, Nissan Leaf, and Hyundai Ioniq models do not feature a physical clutch or neutral disengagement mechanism for the motor shafts.

The Dangers of Wheel-Rolling EV Recovery

When the wheels of an EV rotate, the electric permanent magnet motors act as dynamos. If towed with wheels touching the road while the electronics are powered down, enormous uncontrolled electrical currents flow backwards into the high-voltage inverters, causing severe thermal runaway risk and catastrophic motor damage.

The Only Approved Method: Full Flatbed Lift

Every EV manufacturer explicitly specifies that the vehicle must be transported with all four wheels lifted completely off the ground. Our Gravesend recovery fleet is equipped with hydraulic tilt-and-slide flatbeds and low-angle wheel skates to ensure zero strain on high-voltage components.

Stranded on a Kent Road Right Now?

Do not stay in danger. Our recovery operators are active 24/7 across Gravesend, Dartford, the A2, and M25. Average arrival time is 30–45 minutes.

Call 24/7 Operations: 07701 392285
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