Electric vehicles (EVs) are rapidly becoming mainstream thanks to their environmental benefits, lower running costs, and advanced technology. Yet, one of the most common concerns among EV owners is: What happens if my electric vehicle runs out of charge on the road? Unlike petrol or diesel cars where you can simply refill a tank, running out of charge in an EV requires a different approach.
While modern EVs have advanced range estimations and reserve buffers to reduce the risk, it is still possible to deplete your battery completely if you don’t plan charging stops. The good news is, with the right steps, you can stay safe and handle the situation with minimal stress.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through immediate actions to take, how to get roadside help, towing precautions, and preventive measures to avoid being stranded in the first place.
Immediate Actions to Take
If your EV runs out of charge while driving, the first priority is your safety. Here are the steps you should follow right away:
1. Pull Over Safely
As your EV battery nears depletion, your vehicle may give multiple alerts. When you notice these warnings, begin looking for a safe spot to pull over, preferably away from heavy traffic. Avoid stopping in dangerous areas like blind curves or busy intersections.
2. Check for a Small Reserve
Most EVs are designed with a small hidden reserve even after the display shows “0%.” This buffer allows you to drive a few extra kilometers at reduced power. Use this wisely — drive slowly and efficiently until you reach the nearest safe stopping point. Turn off your AC, take the Regen to maximum and drive slowly.
3. Assess Your Surroundings
Once safely parked, check your surroundings. Look for nearby charging stations using your vehicle’s navigation system, EV charging apps, or maps on your phone. If you’re too far from a charging point, prepare to call for roadside assistance.
Getting Help on the Road
If you cannot reach a charger, roadside assistance is your best solution. Here’s how to proceed:
1. Call Roadside Assistance
Contact your vehicle manufacturer’s dedicated roadside service or your auto insurance provider. Many EV manufacturers offer specialized support for stranded vehicles.
2. Request a Flatbed Tow
This step is critical. Unlike ICE cars, EVs should not be towed with their wheels on the ground because the drivetrain may generate electricity while being dragged, leading to overheating and serious damage. Always request a flatbed tow truck, which keeps all four wheels off the ground.
Important Considerations
Beyond immediate help, there are a few important things every EV owner should know about handling a low-battery situation.
1. Preventive Action is Key
The best way to avoid running out of charge is to plan ahead. Regularly monitor your EV’s battery level, especially before long trips, and use route planning tools that integrate charging stops. Aim to recharge when your battery dips below 20–25% rather than waiting until the last moment.
2. Towing Precautions
Always remind the towing company that EVs must be transported on a flatbed. Improper towing can not only void your warranty but also lead to costly drivetrain or battery repairs.
3. Maintain Battery Health
Once you’ve reached a charging station, avoid keeping your EV at extremely low or extremely high states of charge for long periods. For long-term battery health, most experts recommend keeping the charge between 60% and 80% whenever possible.
4. Jumpstarting Misconceptions
Unlike traditional cars, EVs cannot be jumpstarted using another car’s 12-volt battery to restart the main battery pack. While the auxiliary 12-volt battery in EVs can be jumpstarted to power systems like lights or infotainment, the main traction battery requires professional charging equipment. You can, if your vehicle allows it, charge your car with the help of another EV through V2V load sharing.
Tips to Prevent Running Out of Charge
- Use EV Apps: Apps like PlugShare and your manufacturer’s navigation tools help you locate available charging stations in real-time.
- Know Your Range: Be familiar with your vehicle’s real-world range, which may vary depending on speed, terrain, temperature, and driving style.
- Charge Overnight: If possible, set up home charging so your vehicle starts the day with a full battery.
- Plan for Detours: On road trips, account for unexpected delays or detours that could add extra distance.
- Carry a Portable Charger (if possible): Some EV owners keep compact, emergency chargers that can plug into standard outlets for backup in critical situations.
Conclusion
Running out of charge in an electric vehicle may feel daunting, but with proper knowledge and preparation, it is entirely manageable. The key steps are to pull over safely, check for reserve power, call for roadside assistance, and ensure your EV is flatbed towed or temporarily recharged with a mobile unit.
Most importantly, preventive planning—through regular monitoring, route planning, and healthy charging habits—will greatly reduce the chances of ever being stranded. With EV charging infrastructure expanding worldwide, range anxiety is becoming less of an issue, but it always pays to be prepared.
Driving an EV is about embracing smarter, more sustainable mobility. By knowing what to do when your battery runs low, you can enjoy the benefits of electric driving with confidence and peace of mind.
