Electric vehicles (EVs) offer an exciting and more sustainable alternative to traditional fuel-powered cars with many of the same designs and features. This cleaner, more efficient substitute for gas powered transportation is both thrilling and innovative. In the excitement of exploring electric vehicles (EVs) and uncovering the multitude of benefits they offer, there’s often one important consideration that might slip through the cracks: devising a plan for the unlikely event of a dead battery.
Unlike traditional gas vehicles, where finding a gas station is often a straightforward task, managing an EV’s charge requires a bit more foresight. This guide aims to demystify what happens when your EV’s battery starts running low and introduces a modern solution to the age-old problem of being stranded – without the need for a tow.
Understanding EV Battery Management
Early Warnings
Electric vehicles are equipped with sophisticated systems designed to keep you informed about your battery’s status. As your charge level approaches 20%, your vehicle will begin issuing warnings, increasing in urgency as the charge diminishes. This can include visual alerts, such as a changing battery indicator color, and suggestions to navigate to the nearest charging station.
The Final Stretch
Reaching 0% on your EV’s battery indicator is not an immediate cause for panic. Most EVs are designed with a buffer range, allowing you to drive a few extra miles even after hitting zero. However, this reserve is influenced by various factors, such as driving conditions, which can significantly affect how many extra miles you can get. Each make and model will also have different reserve ranges.
This means you can’t depend on having the same range each time the battery reaches zero. Driving on a flat road in mild temperatures will offer more mileage than a hill in a snowstorm.
Running Out of Power: What to Expect
Limited Power and “Turtle Mode”
Unlike in gas-power cars, your car won’t stop as drastically if you continue driving past the reserve charge. Instead, your EV will enter a low-power “turtle mode,” indicated by a turtle icon on some dashboards. This mode significantly reduces the vehicle’s speed to conserve energy, allowing you to find a safe place to pull over.
Final Stop
Finally, when your EV fully runs out of power, it will force a hard stop. This is why it’s important to pay attention to all the notices because the car places itself into park. Although some features like GPS, door locks, and windows will still work, the car is no longer drivable, like a gas-powered car.
Can You Tow an EV?
Unlike gasoline vehicles, EVs cannot be conventionally towed due to their electric drivetrain. A regular tow truck will lift the front wheels off the ground while the back wheels stay on the road as the truck drives. This causes the electric motor to generate power and heat while the wheel spins, which can damage the motor itself.
Therefore, transporting an EV requires a flatbed truck to avoid damage. The car has to be placed in neutral mode in order to be moved onto the flatbed truck.
Mobile EV Charging
Recognizing the unique challenges faced by EV owners, Friendly Chevy’s EVHQ Mobile Roadside Assistance offers a convenient, efficient alternative to towing. With our mobile EV charging services, help is just a call away, providing you with enough charge to reach the nearest charging station or even to get you home.
Why Choose Mobile EV Charging Services?
- Quick and Efficient: Our EV rescue charging services are designed to get you back on the road in no time. Whether it’s emergency charging options for electric cars you’re after or a simple boost to help you reach the nearest charging station, we’ve got you covered.
- Convenient: With our portable EV charging solutions, you won’t have to worry about finding emergency EV charging nearby or waiting hours for a tow truck. We come to you, providing on-demand EV charging when and where you need it.
- Versatile Compatibility: Our mobile charging truck is equipped to cater to a wide array of electric vehicles, ensuring that no matter your model—be it a Tesla Model S, Nissan Leaf, Chevrolet Bolt, or BMW i3—we have the technology and adaptors to provide the charge you need. This versatility ensures that you’re not left stranded, regardless of the type of EV you drive.
Navigating the world of electric vehicles comes with its share of new habits and considerations, and the likelihood of being stranded with a depleted battery is minimal for the prepared driver. Remember, being informed and prepared is key to a seamless EV ownership experience. Just as you would monitor a fuel gauge, maintaining awareness of your battery’s status is crucial.
However, we know that sometimes accidents happen, and should you ever find yourself in a situation where your EV’s battery is depleted, remember that traditional towing isn’t your only option. Our Mobile Roadside Assistance is here to provide a timely and efficient alternative to towing that will get you back on the road in no time. If you find yourself in need of assistance, call us at (214) 286-6579, and we’ll be ready to help you get back on the road in no time.
