EV Battery Died On The Highway? Here Are Emergency Numbers To Call

The biggest fear for many first-time electric vehicle owners is not range, charging time or even the price. It is that one question that quietly sits in the back of their mind - ‘What happens if the battery dies in the middle of a highway?’

But, the good news is that you are not helpless. Modern EVs are designed to warn you well in advance and even if you do run out of charge, there is a clear, safe recovery process. More importantly, there is a dedicated helpline too that can get you moving again. But before you reach for your phone, your first priority should always be safety.

Step One: Get the Car to a Safe Spot

When an EV’s battery drops to the lowest level, the car usually enters what is called ‘turtle mode’ or ‘limp mode’. This reduces speed and power to help you travel a few extra kilometres.

The moment you see this, you should immediately-

• Turn on your hazard lights
• Gently move towards the hard shoulder or a safe lay-by
• Stop the car in a flat and visible area and avoid stopping in a blind corner or fast-moving lane.

A small but important tip is that if the main battery is fully drained, the 12V battery continues to power essentials like door locks and lights. Keep a window slightly open and the key inside to avoid getting locked out if the 12V battery also runs down.

Also Read: Change Your Car Engine Oil At Home? 30-Minute DIY That Keeps Your Car Young And Saves Labour Charge

Step Two: Call Roadside Assistance, Not a Local Tow Truck

This is where many people make costly mistakes. An EV must never be towed with its wheels on the ground. Doing so can seriously damage the electric motor and drivetrain

because the system continues to generate heat and resistance.

Always request a flatbed truck, where all four wheels are lifted off the road.

Here are some other emergency options in India-

• Roadserve: 1800-3093-431
• Exide Batmobile: 70440 00000
• RSA support through your insurance provider (if you’ve opted for it)

Some cities also offer mobile emergency charging vans that can give you a small top-up, which is just enough to reach the nearest charging station.

Here are some important emergency numbers you should always keep in your speed dial:-

Brand / Service	Toll-Free Number	Support Type	Availability
Tata Motors (Passenger / EV)	1800-209-8282	EV roadside assistance, breakdown, towing	24×7
Tata XPRES-T (Commercial EV)	1800-209-7979	Commercial EV support	24×7
Tata EV Charging Support	1800-209-8989	Charging-related assistance	24×7
Kia Care (EV)	1800-108-5005	EV roadside assistance & towing	24×7
Hyundai Roadside Assistance (RSA)	1800-102-4645	Breakdown support (within warranty)	24×7
Honda Cars India	1800-113-121	Roadside assistance	24×7

Step Three: Find the Nearest Charger

Apps like PlugShare or your car’s built-in navigation system can quickly locate the closest charging point. In most cases, the RSA team will transport your vehicle there.

The Smart Way to Avoid This Situation

Here is something every EV owners always do-

• Start looking for a charger when the battery hits 20%.
• Treat 10% like reserve fuel
• Plan highway routes using charging maps in advance, as unlike petrol pumps, chargers still require a bit of planning.

Running out of charge in an EV is not very different from running out of fuel in a petrol or diesel car. The difference is that EV recovery needs the right equipment and the right call.