EV Towing in Portland: What Electric Vehicle Owners Need to Know

Electric vehicles are everywhere in Portland now, and they don't tow like gas cars. Tow an EV wrong and you can fry a drive motor worth thousands. Here's what every EV owner should know before they need a tow.

Why EVs can't be towed like normal cars

Most EVs have no true neutral. The drive motors stay connected to the wheels even when the car is "off." Dragging an EV with its drive wheels on the ground can generate electricity back through the motor (regenerative braking working in reverse), overheating components and causing serious damage. The owner's manual for nearly every EV on the road says the same thing: flatbed only.

What to tell the dispatcher

When you call for a tow, say three things: it's electric, the make and model, and whether it still powers on. That tells us to send a flatbed with the right gear: soft straps (never chains on EV wheels), the correct jack points, and wheel dollies if the car won't roll. A dead 12-volt battery can lock an EV in park, which changes the whole loading plan.

The "I ran out of charge" tow

It's the most common EV call we get. No shame in it. Portland's charging map has gaps, especially on the east side and out toward the Gorge. If you're stranded with an empty battery, don't try to limp it. Call (503) 253-3030 and we'll flatbed you to the nearest charger or your home, whichever you prefer.

What proper EV towing looks like

Our operators load EVs onto flatbeds with the bed fully lowered, winch or drive the car up with soft straps on the wheels (never the suspension), and secure it at the manufacturer jack points. No dragging, no dollies-on-pavement shortcuts, no guesswork. Teslas, Rivians, F-150 Lightnings, Ioniqs. We've moved them all.

Drive electric? Save (503) 253-3030 in your phone. When the battery gauge hits zero, you'll be glad you did.