Electric vehicle transport: Tesla, Taycan, EQS, and other EVs

An EV surprises during transport with several details. The weight of the battery, regenerative braking that complicates loading in transport, the specific transport mode in a Tesla, and the sensitive protection of the battery cover on the underside of the vehicle. In this guide we describe what makes transporting a Tesla, Porsche Taycan, Mercedes EQS, and other EVs technically different, and how we approach it at TransportCar.eu.

Battery weight and loading logistics

An EV is on average heavier than a typical combustion vehicle of the same size. Tesla Model S, Porsche Taycan Turbo S, Mercedes EQS, Audi e-tron GT, BMW iX, Lucid Air. All have, on average, 300 to 500 kilograms higher curb weight than a comparable combustion model. The battery is placed in the floor, which has two consequences.

First, the vehicle has a low center of gravity and a stable profile, which is an advantage for transport. Second, the weight is distributed evenly along the entire underside, which requires the truck to have the capacity to handle the specific model without compromising deck statics. Our enclosed trucks are dimensioned for the transport of premium EVs, including models like the Lucid Air Sapphire or Audi RS e-tron GT.

Air-ride suspension and battery pack protection

A truck with air-ride suspension absorbs road impacts, which is especially important for transported EVs. Although the battery cover is structurally robust, exposing it to unnecessary shocks makes no sense. Air-ride ensures that the vehicle travels smoothly and the battery pack remains protected from mechanical load.

Regenerative braking in transport: position N

Regenerative braking is a standard in EVs. In some models it is a strong one pedal driving that, when the accelerator is released, causes significant slowdown. In transport, however, the vehicle has no one behind the wheel, and regenerative braking would actively affect the wheels during loading or handling. The solution is shifting to position N.

For a Tesla, this is activation of transport mode or tow mode, which temporarily deactivates stabilization and regenerative functions, and the vehicle behaves as neutral. For a Porsche Taycan and Mercedes EQS, it is handled through a specific menu procedure that the driver knows how to activate.

Tow mode in a Tesla and other models

Tow mode in a Tesla is a special mode that keeps the 12V systems powered, allows shifting to position N, and prevents automatic activation of the parking brake. Without tow mode activated, after a few minutes of inactivity a Tesla can engage the parking system on its own, and the vehicle becomes unusable in a transport context.

When picking up from an auction or a dealership, it is important that the owner or seller hands the driver the code or private key that enables tow mode activation. Our drivers have a trained procedure for Teslas Model 3, Model Y, Model S, Model X, and Cybertruck. The same applies to Taycan and EQS.

Soft straps and avoiding fixation across the battery cover

The same principle applies to EV transport as to all premium transport. Soft straps at chassis points. No strap may be routed across the battery cover that forms the floor of the vehicle. While the battery cover is structurally robust, its function is to protect the battery modules and manage thermals. Pulling a strap across the cover is not appropriate and can deform the cover panel.

Our drivers know the chassis points for specific models. The Tesla Model S and Model X have securing points the manufacturer recommends for flat-bed transport. The Porsche Taycan has documented securing points located in front of and behind the battery unit. The Mercedes EQS likewise.

Private key at auction pickup

Many EVs, especially Teslas, have in recent years been frequently sold through auction platforms. At auction pickup, it is essential that the driver receive the private key or access to the vehicle that allows it to be unlocked and transport mode activated. Without access, the vehicle cannot legitimately be moved.

When organizing transport from auction, we coordinate with the auction company and the owner on proof of ownership, documents for a legitimate pickup, and, in the case of a Tesla, the digital key handover or PIN code process.

Emphasis on an enclosed truck

An EV does not belong on an open tow truck. There are several reasons. The first is the value of the vehicle. The Tesla Model S Plaid, Porsche Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo, Mercedes EQS 580, or Lucid Air Grand Touring are vehicles in a segment where enclosed transport is just as logical as for a premium combustion car.

The second reason is the electronics. Exposing an EV to rain, salt, or dust is not desirable. While the vehicle is designed for normal operation, transport on an open ramp means prolonged exposure that does not match the natural use of the car.

The third reason is aesthetics. The original paint, original rims, and original aerodynamic elements should remain in the same condition as they left the factory. An enclosed truck is the only way to guarantee this on a route of hundreds of kilometers across Europe.

Our experience

We have been transporting EVs since their mass entry to the market. Our network of 150+ partners and 200+ corridors covers 28 EU countries plus UK, Switzerland, and Norway, including locations with a high concentration of EV registrations. CMR insurance is the standard; supplementary insurance for higher values is available. Live GPS tracking and 24/7 dispatch are a given for every transport.

For standard EU routes we plan 3 to 5 days. For premium EVs with higher value, we recommend a 10 day lead time. Express transport under 72 hours is possible in specific cases.

Frequently asked questions

Does the vehicle need to be charged before transport?

It does not need to be fully charged for pickup and transport, but we recommend a minimum 30 percent battery state so the driver can activate transport mode, move the vehicle on the ramp, and control loading. For a Tesla this is especially relevant, because tow mode requires 12V system power.

How is pickup from a Tesla auction handled?

After the order, we coordinate the date and documents with the auction platform. The client hands us the private key or PIN code that enables entry to the vehicle and activation of transport mode. The driver performs photo documentation before and after transport.

Do drivers know how to activate tow mode in a Tesla and Taycan?

Yes, our drivers have a trained procedure for activating transport mode in a Tesla (Model 3, Y, S, X, Cybertruck), Porsche Taycan, and Mercedes EQS. For less common models, we consult the procedure with the owner or seller before pickup.

What is the difference between door to door and standard transport for an EV?

Door to door means we pick up the vehicle directly from the client's address and deliver it to the exact destination address. For an EV this is practical, because it eliminates the need for the client to move the car to a collection point, where it could discharge or require additional logistics.

What's next

For a specific calculation for your EV transport, use the quote form. More information on enclosed transport is in the enclosed transport section. For pickup and delivery directly to the address, we recommend the door to door service.