Electric Van Breakdown Recovery: What Is Different and What EV Drivers Need to Know

Electric vans are rapidly replacing diesel in London and other UK cities, driven by ULEZ expansion and lower running costs. But when an electric van breaks down, the recovery process is different from a diesel van. Here is what every EV van driver and fleet operator needs to know.

Can You Tow an Electric Van?

No. Electric vans must NEVER be towed with the drive wheels on the ground. The electric motor, when turned by the wheels, acts as a generator and can send high voltage back through the system, damaging the motor controller, inverter, and battery management system. All electric vans must be recovered on a flatbed truck with all four wheels off the ground. Our van breakdown recovery fleet includes flatbed trucks suitable for all electric vans.

What Happens If You Run Out of Charge?

Unlike running out of diesel — where we can bring fuel to you — running out of charge requires recovery to a charging point. Some recovery operators now carry mobile charging units that can deliver enough charge for 5-10 miles of driving, enough to reach the nearest charger. Check with your recovery provider whether this service is available. For now, most out-of-charge incidents result in flatbed recovery to a charging station.

Battery and Electrical System Failures

Electric vans have far fewer moving parts than diesel vans, so mechanical breakdowns are less common. However, when an electrical fault occurs, roadside diagnosis is often impossible. Most electrical issues require recovery to a franchised dealer with specialist diagnostic equipment. Independent garages may not have the tools to work on high-voltage EV systems.

ULEZ and Recovery

If you operate a diesel van in London and it breaks down inside the ULEZ zone, you may be concerned about charges. Our recovery vehicles are all ULEZ-compliant, and we can recover your van without you incurring additional daily charges. If you are considering switching to an electric van to avoid ULEZ fees, our London area pages cover every borough with ULEZ-compliant recovery.