Your electric vehicle is one of the most sophisticated machines on the road – and it deserves a towing service that treats it that way. At Oakland Towing, we specialize in safe, flatbed-only electric vehicle towing across Oakland and the East Bay, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Whether you’re driving a Tesla Model 3, a Rivian R1T, or any other EV, our certified operators know exactly how to handle your vehicle without risking damage to its battery, drivetrain, or regenerative braking system.
📞 Stranded right now? Call us at (510) 250-7165 — we’ll dispatch a flatbed truck to your location within 25 – 30 minutes.
Electric vehicle towing is the process of transporting a battery-powered vehicle using a flatbed tow truck – the only method recommended by EV manufacturers. Unlike traditional gas-powered cars, electric vehicles cannot be towed with a wheel-lift or dolly setup. Doing so can engage the electric motor, cause regenerative braking feedback, and permanently damage the drivetrain or high-voltage battery pack.
Flatbed towing keeps all four wheels off the ground at all times, eliminating any risk of motor engagement or battery stress during transport. It is the safest, manufacturer-approved method for moving any electric vehicle.
Here’s why electric vehicles demand a different approach:
EV battery packs operate at 400–800 volts and are integrated into the vehicle’s floor structure. Improper towing angles, wheel drag, or rough handling can stress battery cells, trigger thermal events, or void manufacturer warranties.
Most electric vehicles do not have a true neutral gear. When the wheels spin, the electric motor generates electricity – which can overload the battery management system if the vehicle is dragged or wheel-lifted.
EVs use regenerative braking to recapture energy. If the wheels are in contact with the road during towing, this system activates unintentionally, creating resistance and potential drivetrain damage.
Tesla, Rivian, and virtually every major EV manufacturer explicitly state in their owner’s manuals that flatbed towing is the only approved method of vehicle transport. Oakland Towing follows these guidelines on every call.
When you call Oakland Towing for EV assistance, here’s exactly what happens:
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Call (510) 250-7165. We assign a flatbed truck immediately.
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Our certified operator arrives within 25 – 30 minutes with EV-specific equipment.
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We follow manufacturer-specific loading protocols, using extended ramps for low-clearance EVs.
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DeYour EV rides fully elevated – all four wheels off the ground.
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We deliver your Electric vehicle safely to your preferred destination.
I was panicking when my Model 3 completely bricked while I was parked near College Ave in Rockridge. I’ve heard horror stories about tow companies using the wrong equipment on EVs, but the dispatcher at Oakland Towing immediately put me at ease. They sent a flatbed truck within 25 minutes, and the driver, Alex, clearly knew his way around a Tesla. He was super careful with the underbody and got me to the service center without a scratch. Best towing experience I’ve had in the East Bay.
Sarah M.
Total lifesaver! My Rivian ran out of juice right in Downtown Oakland during rush hour. I called Oakland Towing and they actually arrived faster than the 30-minute ETA they gave me. The operator was a pro – he knew exactly how to handle the regenerative braking settings before loading it onto the flatbed. If you drive an EV in Oakland and get stranded, don’t call anyone else. These guys actually understand how electric cars work.
Marcus T.
Our flatbed fleet is equipped to safely transport all major electric vehicle brands and models, including:
No. Electric vehicles must be transported on a flatbed tow truck with all four wheels off the ground. Wheel-lift or dolly towing can activate the electric motor, cause regenerative braking interference, and permanently damage the battery.
If your Tesla runs out of charge, pull safely to the side of the road and call Oakland Towing at (510) 250-7165. We’ll dispatch a flatbed truck to transport your vehicle to the nearest Supercharger or your home.
Rates depend on distance and vehicle size. We provide transparent, upfront pricing with no hidden fees. Call (510) 250-7165 for a free estimate.
Towing your EV on a flatbed — the manufacturer-approved method — will not void your warranty. Improper towing methods (wheel-lift or dolly) can cause significant damage and void your coverage.
Don’t risk your EV with a company that isn’t equipped to handle it. Oakland Towing’s flatbed fleet and certified operators ensure your vehicle arrives safely — every time.
📞 Call (510) 250-7165 – Available 24/7, 25 – 30 Minute Response