What to Do If You Run Out of Charge on the Road

What to Do If You Run Out of Charge

It happens. Stay calm — here's the playbook.

Step 1: Pull Over Safely

Coast to the shoulder. Don't try to push an EV — many have a "parking mode" lock and dragging can damage the motor.

Step 2: Switch on Hazards & Call for Help

EVs cannot be towed with wheels on the ground unless it's the non-driven axle. Always insist on a flatbed tow truck. Wrong towing destroys the motor.

Emergency Numbers in Pakistan

• Motorway Police: 130
• Rescue 1122: 1122
• Your dealer's roadside assistance (save it in your phone)
• PakEV Hub WhatsApp helpline: +92 320 7248528

Step 3: Get a Top-Up

Options in order of preference:

1. Mobile EV rescue — a few Karachi/Lahore startups now offer 10–15 kWh emergency boosts.
2. Nearest house or shop — even a 3.3 kW portable charger can give you 20–30 km of range in an hour, enough to reach a proper station.
3. Flatbed tow to the nearest DC fast charger.

Step 4: Don't Let It Go to 0%

Modern EVs reserve a small buffer below "0%". Once that's gone, the 12V system also dies and you can't even unlock the car. Always charge at 10% if you see no station within 30 km.

Prevention Checklist

• Plan every trip with at least one fallback charger.
• Don't trust the car's range estimate blindly — subtract 20% for AC, headwinds, hills.
• Carry the OEM portable charger and a 25-metre extension reel.
• Know your nearest dealer along the route.