Electric car breakdown recovery to support UK transition
March 6, 2025
When we launched the ETA in 1990, electric vehicles were about as common as a phone in 2025 without a camera – unless, of course, you count the humble milk float. Today, with over 1.1 million fully electric cars on the UK’s roads, EVs are no longer a niche curiosity but an increasingly mainstream choice. This is just as well because in less than 10 years the UK's Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate requires all newly registered cars to be electric. To support the transition, the ETA is helping to meet the growing need for specialist electric car breakdown recovery.
We’ve assembled a network of specialist mechanics and garages that understands the unique challenges of these vehicles. Partnering with teams like Parker Fry in Peterborough allows us to provide the closest expert assistance when it’s needed – while also supporting local businesses.
One of the most common questions we hear is: Does recovering an EV differ from a petrol or diesel car? According to our mechanics, the fundamentals remain the same; Winches can be attached, or in many cases, EVs can be driven onto recovery vehicles just like their fossil-fuelled counterparts.
However, EVs come with their own quirks. The most obvious is their high-voltage battery system, which requires extra care. Before towing, our teams use infrared temperature sensors to check for any signs of overheating. Once these checks are completed, the vehicle can be safely transported without risk to the battery, or the people handling it.
While EVs are mechanically simpler and more reliable than internal combustion cars, they’re not immune to breakdowns. One of the most common causes of breakdowns is running out of charge. Extreme temperatures, high winds, or simply misjudging available range can all leave a driver stranded. As more of us switch to electric, they’re learning how to plan their journeys more effectively – but for those times when things don’t go to plan, our recovery teams are ready to help.
ETA breakdown cover ensures that whether your car runs on petrol, diesel, or electrons, you’ll have our support when you need it.
Get a quick quote for ETA breakdown cover
The ethical choice
The ETA was established in 1990 as an ethical provider of green, reliable travel services. Over 30 years on, we continue to offer cycle insurance , breakdown cover and mobility scooter insurance while putting concern for the environment at the heart of all we do.
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Information correct at time of publication.
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