Can You Jumpstart an Electric Car

As more drivers across the UK switch to electric vehicles, questions about their upkeep and emergency procedures are becoming increasingly common. One of the most frequent areas of confusion is whether you can jumpstart an electric car in the same way as you would with a petrol or diesel vehicle. At first glance, it seems straightforward, but the systems inside an electric car work very differently to a traditional engine, which means the answer requires some careful explanation.

How the Electrical System Differs from Petrol Cars

A petrol or diesel car relies on a single 12-volt battery to start the engine. Once the engine is running, the alternator keeps the battery charged. In contrast, electric vehicles are built around a high-voltage battery pack that powers the motor. Alongside this, they still use a smaller 12-volt battery to run lights, wipers, infotainment systems, and other electronics. This is important because while the car does not need a starter motor in the traditional sense, the 12-volt battery still plays a role in getting the car’s systems ready to drive. If the 12-volt battery goes flat, the car may not power on even though the main high-voltage battery has charge.

Can You Jumpstart an Electric Car?

The answer is yes, but only in a limited sense. You can jumpstart the 12-volt battery in an electric car much like you would in a conventional vehicle. This is usually enough to get the onboard systems running so that the main drive battery can be accessed and used. However, you must never attempt to jumpstart the high-voltage battery. These packs operate at hundreds of volts and require specialist equipment and knowledge. Attempting to work on or connect to them without the correct training is extremely dangerous and could lead to serious injury.

The Correct Way to Jumpstart the 12-Volt Battery

If your electric car will not switch on because the 12-volt battery has gone flat, you can use jump leads or a battery booster pack. The process is broadly similar to a petrol car, with one key difference. Always check the vehicle manufacturer’s instructions before doing this, as each model has its own designated connection points. Using the wrong terminals could damage sensitive electronics. Once connected correctly, a boost from another vehicle’s battery or a portable charger should provide enough power for the car to activate its systems and engage the main battery pack.

When You Should Avoid Jumpstarting

Although it is possible, jumpstarting is not always recommended. Electric cars contain advanced electronic management systems that are sensitive to sudden surges of power. A poorly executed jumpstart, or the use of damaged cables, could cause costly damage to control units. For this reason, many motoring organisations and breakdown providers advise calling a professional recovery service if you are in doubt. These technicians are trained to deal with electric vehicles and will have equipment designed to safely restart a 12-volt battery without risking damage to the car.

Maintaining the 12-Volt Battery

One of the best ways to avoid needing to jumpstart an electric car is to keep the 12-volt battery in good condition. Unlike petrol models where the engine runs daily, some electric cars can sit idle for longer periods, particularly if used mainly for short trips. If the 12-volt system is not regularly topped up, it can lose charge. Simple habits such as driving the car regularly, keeping it plugged in when parked for extended periods, or using a trickle charger if the car is stored for a long time can help maintain the battery’s health.

Safety Considerations

Electric vehicles are built to rigorous safety standards, but high-voltage systems mean extra caution is always required. The 12-volt battery is the only part of the electrical system that drivers should attempt to jumpstart themselves. Any issues with the high-voltage battery, charging system, or power electronics should only be dealt with by qualified technicians. It is also worth checking whether your breakdown cover includes specialist electric vehicle assistance, as this ensures help will come from someone trained to handle EV systems safely.

The Role of Professional Assistance

Calling a breakdown service is not just about safety but also convenience. A professional can quickly diagnose whether the 12-volt battery is the issue or if there is a deeper fault. They can also ensure the correct procedures are followed, protecting the vehicle warranty and avoiding the risk of costly repairs. For landlords or businesses with multiple electric cars on site, arranging professional maintenance and support can prevent downtime and give peace of mind that vehicles remain ready for use.

Conclusion

You can jumpstart an electric car, but only in relation to its 12-volt battery. This may be enough to get the car running so that the high-voltage battery can take over, but the main drive battery itself cannot and should not ever be jumpstarted. Following manufacturer instructions, keeping the 12-volt system maintained, and calling professionals when needed are the safest ways to handle this situation. For UK drivers, understanding these differences helps to avoid mistakes and ensures that your electric car remains safe and reliable on the road.