Have you ever wondered what happens if your electric car runs out of charge?
Unlike traditional gas-powered cars, which can be refueled almost anywhere, running out of charge in an electric car can leave you stranded and scrambling for a solution. According to the latest data, nearly 60% of electric vehicle owners in the US worry about range anxiety, fearing they’ll run out of power before reaching an EV charging station. With the growing number of electric car chargers and better battery technology, this concern is lessening, but it’s still important to understand what to do if it happens.
We’ll explore the consequences of running out of charge, how an electric vehicle notifies you when the battery is low, whether you can tow or push the car, and the steps to take if your electric car battery runs out of juice. By the end, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to handle any battery emergency and ensure that your electric car charging experience is as smooth as possible.
What Happens When an Electric Car Runs Out of Power?
When your electric car runs out of charge, it’s a bit like running out of gas in a traditional vehicle – but with a few key differences. An electric vehicle (EV) will gradually lose power as the battery drains, giving you ample time to find a nearby EV charging station. However, once the battery reaches 0%, the car will completely shut down. At this point, you won’t be able to drive or even operate basic functions like the radio or air conditioning.
Most modern electric cars are designed with safety in mind, so they will provide plenty of warnings before the battery reaches critical levels. Once your electric car battery hits 20% to 30% charge, the dashboard will typically display a warning.
As you get closer to the 10% range, the car may show an urgent message, urging you to find a charging station immediately. Some cars will even change driving behavior, such as limiting speed or power, to conserve energy.
When your electric vehicle runs out of charge completely, the car will refuse to start or move until it’s charged again. Fortunately, in most cases, electric vehicle charging solutions are available nearby. However, if you’re in a remote location, it can be a frustrating experience.
How Does an EV Inform You About Low Battery Levels?
One of the major advantages of electric cars is the advanced technology that helps prevent running out of charge unexpectedly. Your electric vehicle will notify you in several ways as the battery charge starts to drop:
Dashboard Warning Lights – As the battery reaches lower levels (around 30%), most electric cars will display a yellow or orange warning light on the dashboard. This serves as an early warning, prompting you to find a charging point soon.
Low Battery Alerts – When the charge drops even further, typically under 10%, the car will give a visual and sometimes audio alert that the battery is dangerously low. At this stage, you may also receive messages on the screen showing the electric car range and the nearest EV charging stations.
Power Reduction Features – To avoid an emergency shutdown, many electric vehicles automatically reduce power or limit speed as the battery drains. This is intended to extend your range long enough to reach a charging point.
Navigation System Updates – Some electric cars even update your navigation system with the locations of nearby electric car chargers, so you can take the most efficient route to the nearest charging station.
By the time your electric vehicle battery reaches 0%, you’ll usually have enough data to find a solution. Still, it’s important to keep in mind that the more you use your electric car, the better you’ll get at recognizing the early signs of a low battery.
Can You Tow or Push an Electric Car?
In the unfortunate event that your electric car runs out of charge and you’re unable to find a nearby charging point, you may wonder whether you can tow or push the vehicle. The short answer is yes, but there are important caveats.
Towing an Electric Car: Many electric vehicle manufacturers advise against towing your electric car using traditional methods, as doing so may cause damage to the battery, electric motor, or drivetrain. If you must tow an EV, it’s best to use a flatbed tow truck. This ensures that the wheels are off the ground, preventing any unnecessary strain on the car’s internal components. Towing a vehicle with the wheels on the ground can result in long-term damage.
Pushing an Electric Car: Pushing your electric car isn’t advisable, especially if it’s a rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. Doing so could put undue strain on the motor or transmission. In addition, electric vehicles tend to be much heavier than traditional cars, making them difficult to move by hand. If you need to move your electric car a short distance (such as from a driveway to the road), it’s best to consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions.
Instead of towing or pushing, most electric car charger suppliers and roadside assistance services can bring a portable electric vehicle charger to your location, providing a much safer and more efficient solution.
Actions to Take if Your Vehicle Battery Runs Low
If your electric car battery is low, there are several things you can do to get back on the road:
Find a Nearby Charging Station – Use your car’s navigation system to locate the nearest electric car chargers. Many EV charging stations have apps that can show real-time availability, so you can plan accordingly.
Use a Portable Charger – If you’re stuck somewhere without access to a charging station, a portable electric vehicle charging unit might be your best option. Some electric car charger manufacturers sell portable charging kits that can be plugged into a standard outlet for emergency charging. This method will typically provide a slow charge but could give you enough power to reach a nearby station.
Call Roadside Assistance – Many electric car charger providers offer roadside assistance services. If you’re far from a charging point, they may bring you a portable charger or tow you to the nearest EV charging station.
Look for Mobile Charging Services – In some areas, mobile electric vehicle charging services are available. These services will come to you with a portable charging station, allowing you to top up your battery without needing to drive anywhere.
It’s important to be proactive about charging your electric vehicle. Always try to keep your battery above 20% whenever possible and take advantage of electric car incentives or home charging options to keep your battery topped off.
Ready to stay ahead on the road and make the most of your electric vehicle experience?
Explore our range of advanced EV chargers and discover how you can charge smarter, faster, and more conveniently.
In conclusion, running out of charge in your electric car is a rare but manageable situation, thanks to advanced technology and charging infrastructure. Most electric vehicles provide ample warning when the battery is low, and there are several actions you can take to get back on the road, such as locating electric vehicle charging stations, using portable chargers, or relying on roadside assistance. While electric car maintenance costs may be lower than traditional vehicles, it’s important to stay vigilant about your battery levels and plan accordingly.
By understanding the common signs of a low electric car battery and knowing what steps to take, you can ensure that your electric vehicle charging experience remains smooth and hassle-free. Keep your electric car battery life in check, and always be prepared with a backup plan to avoid running into an emergency.
