Electric vehicle towing is categorically different from conventional vehicle towing, and operators who don't recognize this difference cause serious, expensive damage. The towing rules for EVs aren't suggestions — they're technical requirements driven by the physics of EV powertrain and battery architecture.
The core rule: EVs must be transported on a flatbed with all four wheels off the ground. There are no exceptions. Wheel-lifting or dolly-towing an EV causes the motor to act as a generator, potentially overcharging the HV battery pack. On Tesla Model 3 and Y specifically, Tesla's documentation explicitly states that any towing with wheels on the ground can cause "significant damage" and voids the warranty coverage for resulting repairs. Similar restrictions apply to every major EV brand.
EV towing in Metro Atlanta has grown rapidly. In 2024, Fulton and DeKalb counties combined registered over 28,000 EVs — a number growing at 40%+ annually. Tesla accounts for the largest share, followed by Chevy Bolt/EUV, Nissan Leaf, Ford F-150 Lightning, Rivian R1T/R1S, and Hyundai Ioniq 5/6. Our operators are trained on the specific loading and tie-down requirements for all of these platforms.
EV "won't start" calls have a complication that ICE vehicles don't: many EVs that appear completely dead actually have a failed 12V auxiliary battery rather than a depleted HV pack. The 12V battery powers the car's computers and contactors — without it, the HV system won't engage even if the main battery is fully charged. We can diagnose this on-site and often resolve 12V EV issues without a tow, saving owners the time and cost of unnecessary transport.
We deliver EVs to Tesla Service Centers (Buford Highway and Alpharetta locations), Rivian Service Centers, dealership service departments, and certified EV repair facilities throughout Metro Atlanta.
EV Towing Specialization
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't you wheel-lift a Tesla or other EV?
EVs use regenerative braking — when the wheels turn, the motor generates electricity. Towing with wheels on the ground can force current into an already-charged battery pack, causing damage. Additionally, EV drivetrains have no neutral and the drivetrain components aren't designed for wheel-on-road towing loads.
My EV shows zero range — can you tow it?
Yes. Zero range or complete power loss on an EV often indicates a 12V auxiliary battery failure rather than a depleted main battery. We'll check on-site and determine whether roadside resolution or a tow to a service facility is appropriate.
Do you tow Teslas in Atlanta?
Yes. Tesla flatbed towing across all Metro Atlanta is a core service. We follow Tesla's flatbed loading and tie-down specifications and deliver to Tesla Service Centers or any location you specify.
How do you know where to attach tow straps on an EV?
Each EV brand has specified tow eye or tie-down locations in the owner's manual. Our operators are trained on the strap attachment points for all major EV platforms and carry brand-specific reference documentation on every truck.