How to Tow an Electric or Hybrid Vehicle Safely
Electric vehicles are the fastest-growing segment on Kitchener roads. Tesla Model Ys in every neighbourhood. Hyundai Ioniq 5s on the 401. Toyota RAV4 Primes in Cambridge driveways. Chevy Bolts on University Avenue. And every single one of them requires different towing procedures than the gasoline cars that came before them.
The problem is knowledge lag. Many tow operators learned their trade on gasoline vehicles and apply the same methods to EVs — with potentially catastrophic consequences. A wheel-lift tow that’s perfectly safe for a Honda Civic can cause $5,000–$15,000 in damage to a Tesla Model 3. And the risks go beyond drivetrain damage: improperly handled EV batteries can overheat, vent toxic gases, or in extreme cases catch fire.
This guide covers everything Kitchener EV and hybrid owners need to know about safe towing: why flatbed is mandatory, what “transport mode” actually does, the difference between BEV and hybrid towing needs, manufacturer-specific rules, and how to handle a damaged EV. For a general comparison of tow truck types, see our post on wheel-lift vs. flatbed towing. For AWD-specific concerns, read our AWD/4WD towing guide.
Why Every EV Must Be Flatbed Towed
The reason is physics — specifically, the relationship between electric motors and generators. In an electric vehicle, the same component that drives the wheels also generates electricity when the wheels spin. This is called regenerative braking, and it’s what charges the battery when you lift off the accelerator during normal driving.
When an EV is towed with wheels on the ground, the wheels spin the motors. The motors generate current. But the vehicle’s systems aren’t managing that current — the car may be off, in an error state, or have a dead 12V battery. The result is uncontrolled electrical energy flowing into components that aren’t prepared for it.
Here’s what can go wrong:
BEV vs. Plug-In Hybrid vs. Traditional Hybrid: Towing Differences
Not all electrified vehicles are the same. The towing requirements differ significantly between the three main types:
*Traditional hybrids like the Toyota Prius may be wheel-lift towable in neutral per manufacturer instructions, but flatbed is always safer. If you’re unsure of your hybrid type, request a flatbed — the cost difference is minimal compared to the damage risk.
What Is “Transport Mode” and Does It Make Towing Safe?
Many EVs have a “Transport Mode” or “Tow Mode” setting designed for flatbed loading. Here’s what it actually does — and doesn’t do:
Transport mode is designed to make flatbed loading easier — not to make wheel-on-ground towing safe. Even with transport mode engaged, the vehicle must still ride on a flatbed with all four wheels off the ground during the actual tow. If the vehicle’s 12V battery is dead, transport mode may not be accessible — the tow operator needs to know how to manually release the parking brake (each manufacturer has a different procedure).
EV Broke Down? We Know the Procedure.
Flatbed fleet trained in EV loading protocols — Tesla, Ioniq, EV6, Bolt, Mach-E, and more. 24/7.
Manufacturer-Specific Towing Rules
Every EV manufacturer has different towing instructions. Here’s what the major brands require for electric vehicle towing:
Tesla (All Models)
Flatbed only. Activate Transport Mode via touchscreen (Controls → Service → Towing). If 12V battery is dead, Transport Mode is inaccessible — operator must manually release the parking brake via the mechanical release under the rear seat (Model 3/Y) or in the frunk (Model S/X). Maximum winch speed: 5 km/h. Never tow with wheels on ground.
Hyundai Ioniq 5 / Ioniq 6
Flatbed only. Shift to N (neutral) using the console button while the vehicle is on. If the vehicle won’t power on, a manual parking brake release is located under the centre console. Do not tow with any wheels on the ground under any circumstances.
Kia EV6 / EV9 / Niro EV
Flatbed only. Procedures mirror the Hyundai process (shared platform). Engage neutral, release parking brake, load with winch at low speed. The EV9’s larger size and weight require a full-size flatbed — standard short-bed trucks may not accommodate it.
Chevrolet Bolt EV / EUV
Flatbed only. Shift to N while the vehicle is on. If the vehicle won’t start, use the shift override behind the shifter to access neutral. The Bolt’s compact size makes flatbed loading straightforward but the low ground clearance requires careful ramp angle management.
Ford Mustang Mach-E / F-150 Lightning
Flatbed only for both. The Mach-E’s low stance requires standard flatbed ramp angle. The F-150 Lightning’s extreme weight (over 2,900 kg) requires a full-size flatbed rated for heavy loads. Both have neutral modes accessible through the infotainment system.
These procedures change with software updates and new model years. A tow operator experienced in electric vehicle towing stays current on manufacturer procedures — something a general tow company may not prioritize. Our team at (226) 476-0477 handles EV towing regularly and maintains up-to-date knowledge of loading procedures for every major EV brand. For understanding legal towing requirements in Ontario, see our TSSEA driver rights guide.
Towing a Damaged Electric Vehicle: Extra Precautions
An accident-damaged EV carries additional risks that gasoline vehicles don’t have. The high-voltage battery pack (typically 400–800V) can be compromised by collision impact, flooding, or underbody damage:
- Check for battery damage indicators — visible deformation of the battery housing (the flat panel under the car), fluid leaking from the battery area (coolant is often orange or pink), unusual smells (sweet chemical odour), or any hissing/popping sounds.
- Maintain safe distance initially — a compromised EV battery can vent toxic gases (hydrogen fluoride) before visible fire occurs. If you see smoke, smell chemicals, or hear hissing from under the car after an accident, move away and call 911 first.
- Tow to an EV-equipped facility — not every body shop can safely work on EVs. Ensure the destination has high-voltage training and EV-rated equipment. Our accident towing team can coordinate with EV-certified shops in the Waterloo Region.
- Storage considerations — damaged EVs should be stored outdoors, away from buildings and other vehicles, due to the delayed fire risk. Ontario’s TSSEA now includes a separate EV storage category acknowledging these safety requirements.
For general accident towing procedures and insurance coordination, see our post on working with your insurance adjuster. The Transport Canada motor vehicle safety division provides additional guidance on EV collision handling.
How to Choose an EV-Competent Tow Company
Not every tow company understands electric vehicle towing. When calling for an EV tow, ask these qualifying questions:
- “Do you have flatbed trucks?” — the answer must be yes. If they only have wheel-lift trucks, they cannot safely tow your EV.
- “Have you towed my specific EV model before?” — Tesla loading procedures differ from Ioniq 5 procedures. Experience matters.
- “Do your drivers know how to release the electronic parking brake if the car won’t power on?” — this is the real test. If the answer is vague, keep looking.
- “What ramp angle does your flatbed use?” — low-clearance EVs like Tesla Model 3, Chevy Bolt, and BMW iX need a shallow ramp approach. Too steep = underbody scrape on the battery housing.
At Kitchener Towing, our flatbed fleet handles EV towing daily. We know the transport mode procedures, manual brake release locations, and loading angles for every major EV model. For pricing, check our Kitchener towing rates or use the cost estimator. For insurance coverage, see how insurance covers towing. Browse our full services including emergency towing, roadside assistance, 24-hour service, and affordable towing tips. For EV-specific roadside help, see the CAA roadside assistance page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you tow an electric car with a wheel-lift?
No. All battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles must be towed on a flatbed with all four wheels off the ground. Towing with wheels rolling on the road back-drives the electric motors, generating uncontrolled current that can damage the battery management system and power electronics. Repair costs range from $5,000 to $15,000 or more.
Does Transport Mode make wheel-lift towing safe for a Tesla?
No. Transport Mode releases the parking brake and allows the vehicle to roll freely for flatbed loading. It does not fully decouple the motors from the wheels and does not make wheel-on-ground towing safe. Tesla explicitly requires flatbed towing for all models regardless of whether Transport Mode is engaged.
How much does it cost to tow an EV in Kitchener?
A flatbed tow for an EV within Kitchener typically costs $100 to $200, which is the same price as any other flatbed tow. There is no additional EV surcharge for standard towing. Damaged EV recovery may cost more if specialized handling is required. Pricing is confirmed before dispatch.
Can a regular hybrid like a Prius be wheel-lift towed?
Some traditional hybrids like the Toyota Prius can be wheel-lift towed in neutral according to the manufacturer’s instructions. However, flatbed is always the safer option. Plug-in hybrids like the RAV4 Prime and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV must be flatbed towed because they have larger electric motors that generate significant back-drive current.
What if my EV’s 12V battery is dead and I can’t enable Transport Mode?
An experienced EV tow operator knows how to manually release the electronic parking brake on each model. Tesla Model 3 and Y have a manual release under the rear seat. Ioniq 5 has one under the centre console. Chevy Bolt has a shift override. If the operator does not know the procedure for your vehicle, do not allow the tow to proceed — call a different company.
Are EV battery fires common during towing?
EV battery fires during towing are extremely rare when proper flatbed procedures are followed. The risk increases significantly with accident-damaged vehicles where the battery housing may be compromised. If your EV was in a collision and you notice unusual smells, sounds, or visible battery deformation, alert the tow operator and keep a safe distance until they assess the situation.
Does CAA tow electric vehicles?
Yes. CAA dispatches flatbed trucks for EV members. However, not all CAA service providers have EV-specific training. Wait times may be longer if the nearest flatbed equipped for EVs is further away. Calling a local service directly may get you a faster response with an EV-trained operator.
Will improper towing void my EV warranty?
Yes. Tesla, Hyundai, Kia, Ford, Chevy, and BMW all state in their owner’s manuals that improper towing voids the warranty for any resulting damage. This includes both drivetrain and battery damage. If improper towing occurs, the manufacturer will direct you to seek compensation from the tow company rather than covering the repair under warranty.
Is 24-hour EV towing available in Kitchener?
Yes. Kitchener Towing provides flatbed towing for electric and hybrid vehicles 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Our drivers are trained in EV-specific loading procedures for all major brands. Call (226) 476-0477 any time for immediate dispatch.
What should I tell the tow company when I call for my EV?
Tell dispatch three things immediately: your exact vehicle make and model (for example, Tesla Model Y Long Range), that you need a flatbed, and whether the vehicle can power on or if the 12V battery is dead. This ensures the operator arrives with the right equipment and knows which parking brake release procedure to use for your specific vehicle.
Your EV Needs a Tow Company That Gets It.
Flatbed only. Transport mode activated. Proper loading angles. No back-drive damage.
Kitchener • Waterloo • Cambridge • 24/7/365
