What EV Charging Options Are Possible in an Emergency? Here Are Our Best Tips
No matter what type of car you own, it’s always best to have a plan for emergency situations. Many drivers keep a small can of gas in their cars for this very reason, helping provide a last-resort option if they find they’re running out of fuel. But what can EV owners do when it comes to charging their car in a sudden emergency?
Q: What can EV owners do if they run out of charge in an emergency?
A: Unlike gas-powered cars, EVs don’t have a quick “fill-up” option at the nearest station. However, there are several ways to get back on the road. Emergency EV charging solutions include portable EV chargers, mobile charging services, and proactive trip planning to avoid running out of battery.
As Vancouver’s leading EV charging experts, our team at TCA Electric aims to keep drivers informed about all their options. As it happens, there are a few tips and options for emergency EV charging that we can share to help ensure new EV drivers are ready for anything. These include options for charging on the go as well as tips for preventing emergency situations in the first place. Let’s get started!
What Emergency EV Charging Options Are There?
For an EV driver, the most likely emergency situation involves their car nearly or fully running out of charge. In this situation, you may not be sure how to get moving again. Unlike a standard vehicle, you can’t just add gas! Or… can you?
Portable EV Chargers: A Quick Emergency Solution
Portable EV chargers function similarly to a gas can for traditional vehicles. These devices allow EV owners to add enough charge to reach the nearest charging station. A wide range of options are available when it comes to these products, each with the same basic function: a portable charger you can take with you to charge your electric vehicle if you ever find yourself running low with no nearby charger.
There are many brands available, but we’ll mention a couple here. One is the Tesla Mobile Connector, which may make the most sense for Tesla owners. This mobile connector can add a few miles to your car’s range, often enabling drivers to reach the next charging station in a pinch.
Popular options include:
- Tesla Mobile Connector – Ideal for Tesla owners, this charger provides a few extra miles in an emergency.
- Portable Power Stations (e.g., EcoFlow) – Multi-functional battery backups that can charge EVs and serve as home power storage.
EcoFlow serves as battery backup for your home, replacing the need for a generator—but it can also be picked up and taken with you, particularly on a longer car trip, to be used as an emergency EV charging solution.
Keeping a portable EV charger in your vehicle is a smart way to stay prepared for unexpected low-battery situations.
Mobile EV Charging Services: Roadside Assistance for EVs
If you don’t have a portable charger or forgot it at home, mobile EV charging services can help. These services work similarly to roadside assistance, with professionals driving a Level 3 fast charger to your location. This method provides a rapid power boost, often in minutes, so you can reach the nearest charging station.
While these services come with a fee, they offer peace of mind for EV owners in urgent situations.
How to Avoid Emergency EV Charging Situations
The best way to handle an emergency is to prevent one. Here are two key strategies to avoid running out of charge unexpectedly:
- Install a Home EV Charger – Charging at home ensures your vehicle starts each day with a full battery, reducing reliance on third-party chargers.
- Plan Longer Trips Carefully – Map out charging stations in advance, especially in remote areas where chargers are farther apart.
Being proactive about charging can help prevent stressful, last-minute emergencies.
TCA Electric: Your Trusted EV Charging Experts
Need a home EV charger or portable charging solution? TCA Electric specializes in EV charger installation, helping homeowners choose the best charging options. Whether you’re looking for a reliable home setup or backup charging for road trips, we’ve got you covered. TCA Electric is the top expert to call for your charging needs.
📞 Contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure you’re always prepared for your next drive!
