Amped Up but Stuck
Electric vehicles are changing how we think about driving—and towing. As more EVs hit Toronto roads, we’ve adapted how we operate to meet these changes head-on. For our tow truck operators, it’s not just a matter of hooking up a car and driving off anymore. EVs come with unique challenges that traditional towing doesn’t cover. If you’re wondering how Toronto EV towing actually works, let’s break it down.
Understanding the Differences
At first glance, an electric car might look like any other vehicle. But underneath, it’s a whole different story. Unlike gas-powered cars, EVs don’t have a traditional transmission or neutral gear. That matters a lot when you need a tow.
EVs often use regenerative braking systems, which can be damaged if the wheels are allowed to spin freely during a tow. That’s why wheel-lift towing or dolly towing—standard methods used for combustion vehicles—aren’t always the right choice for EVs. In most cases, flatbed towing is the safest and most effective option.
Why Flatbed Towing is the Best Option
Flatbed towing lifts all four wheels off the ground. That means we avoid spinning the drive wheels, which can overheat the motor or damage the powertrain. It’s also the best way to keep the undercarriage and low-clearance parts of an EV safe during transport.
We make sure every flatbed is adjusted correctly and the car is properly secured using points that won’t interfere with sensitive battery components or damage the frame.
Here’s a quick look at how our team prepares for a typical Toronto EV towing job:
- Check the vehicle’s make and model for towing guidelines.
- Identify the drive wheels to avoid unnecessary wear or damage.
- Use a flatbed truck when possible.
- Turn off the vehicle’s propulsion system completely.
- Disable the parking brake if the EV allows it without damaging internal systems.
- Secure the vehicle using non-abrasive straps and appropriate anchor points.
Handling High Voltage Systems
One of the most important parts of EV towing is staying clear of the high-voltage system. Most EVs operate with battery packs ranging from 400 to over 800 volts. That kind of power isn’t just a hazard—it’s deadly if mishandled.
That’s why we never attempt roadside repairs on these systems. If an EV needs towing due to a battery fault, collision, or software issue, we isolate the vehicle and wait until it’s safely in a service bay before anyone inspects the electrical components.
With every Toronto EV towing job we handle, we treat the vehicle like the high-tech machine it is. The tools, straps, and even our approach are tailored to prevent static discharge, system damage, and incorrect handling.
EV Towing Challenges Unique to Winter
Toronto winters add another layer to this already delicate task. Cold temperatures reduce battery range, which can leave more EVs stranded than during warmer months. Ice and snow also make it harder to load vehicles onto a flatbed without slipping or getting stuck.
In these cases, our Toronto EV towing team uses sand or traction boards for grip, and we keep the flatbed angle shallow to avoid damaging the bumper or battery casing. We also monitor battery drain closely—an EV left idling while we set up could lose significant charge fast in the cold.
Abrams Towing: Your Toronto EV Towing Pros
Electric vehicles are here to stay, and that means towing services in Toronto must evolve. We’ve trained our drivers, updated our equipment, and followed manufacturer guidelines closely to make sure each Toronto EV towing call is handled with professionalism.
The next time your electric vehicle needs help, remember that Toronto EV towing takes expertise. And that’s what Abrams Towing brings every time.
