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Electric vehicles can require towing after a flat tire, depleted high-voltage battery, collision, charging failure, locked wheel, or low-voltage electrical problem. EVs also require model-specific handling. The wrong loading method can damage drive components, underbody panels, battery protection, or low-clearance bodywork.
Chain Gang Towing & Recovery Agency provides electric vehicle towing throughout Hillsborough, Woodbridge, Bridgewater, Edison, and surrounding Central New Jersey communities.
Tell dispatch the exact EV model
Start with the year, make, and model. Different electric vehicles use different transport modes, tow-eye locations, manual releases, lift points, and wheel-movement procedures. Also explain what happened: zero range, collision damage, a flat tire, no electrical power, a charging error, or a vehicle that will not shift out of Park.
If the screens are dark or the key is not recognized, mention that too. A failed 12-volt system can prevent an EV from entering transport mode even when the high-voltage battery still has energy.
Why flatbed towing is often recommended
Many EV manufacturers recommend transporting the vehicle with all four wheels off the ground. A flatbed can reduce the risk of drivetrain damage and is often the safest choice for all-wheel-drive EVs, vehicles with locked wheels, and cars with accident damage.
When a vehicle cannot roll or steer normally, dollies, skates, or other specialized recovery tools may be required. The correct procedure always depends on the manufacturer’s instructions and the condition of the vehicle.
What not to do
- Do not assume selecting Neutral makes the EV safe to tow.
- Do not attach chains or hooks to the battery enclosure or unapproved suspension parts.
- Do not attempt a jumpstart using high-voltage components.
- Do not force a damaged wheel to turn.
- Do not approach a collision-damaged EV that is smoking, hissing, popping, or unusually hot.
Call 911 when there is fire, smoke, a serious collision, or an immediate electrical hazard. Keep passengers and bystanders away from a damaged vehicle until emergency personnel say it is safe.
Prepare the destination
Before transport, decide whether the vehicle should go to a dealership, qualified repair facility, collision center, tire shop, home charger, or secure storage location. Confirm that the destination is open and can accept the vehicle, especially after hours.
Tell dispatch about low ground clearance, aftermarket wheels, air suspension, a locked charge cable, or any warning displayed on the dashboard. Keep the key or phone key available and, when safe, review the towing section of the owner’s manual.
Local EV towing help
Chain Gang Towing serves EV drivers in Somerset and Middlesex County communities, including Hillsborough, Bridgewater, Raritan, Woodbridge, Edison, Perth Amboy, and Metuchen. Call (908) 642-3699 with the vehicle model, condition, location, and destination, or learn more about our full towing services.