TOWING HYBRID & ELECTRIC VEHICLES
Hybrid-electric and electric vehicles also require special care when towing or transporting. Because the vehicles are constructed differently than a typical automobile, a normal light-duty hookup can cause damage to wiring and mechanical equipment on the vehicle. While it varies depending on manufacturer, many hybrids and electric cars have small motors or mechanical parts behind the wheels that assist with movement and braking. These can become damage during both hookup and transport.
It’s vital that the operator know what is wrong with a hybrid or electric vehicle before attempting to load or move it, especially if the vehicle has been involved in an accident. Hybrids and electric cars can have a live current running through them, which can cause electrocution, injury or death if the operator is not careful. Luckily these vehicles come with a high-voltage cut-off switch which can be disabled. Consult the vehicle’s owner’s manual for the location of the switch and the steps to disable it.
REMEMBER
Don’t know if the vehicle is fully electric? Examine the vehicle for an exhaust pipe. If the exhaust pipe cannot be found, it’s likely an electric car.
WreckMaster always recommends putting hybrid-electric and electric vehicles on a carrier bed or dollies. The owner’s manual of the vehicle should always be consulted before the vehicle is hooked up or transport. If an operator is unsure whether or not the vehicle can be safely towed on its own tires, it is best to load in on dollies, even if it is being towed by it’s drive wheels.
If loading on a car carrier, ensure that all securement straps are clear of any high-voltage wiring or sensitive mechanical parts that can be damaged by the rigging or during transport.
If towing with a wrecker, make sure that no wires are making contact with the cross bar and that there is clearance between the cross bar and the frame of the vehicle. Soft straps should also be used in place of chains as secondary attachments when towing with a wrecker. This will reduce the chance of damage to the vehicle’s wiring and mechanical parts and eliminates the chance of a live current transferring through the chain.