Why Modern Vehicles Need Specialized Towing Equipment

Collins has been the towing industry’s leader for over 50 years. We’ve seen the shift to automatic transmissions, the advent of ABS, the surge of AWD/4WD, and more. Now, we’re witnessing the biggest shift we’ve seen in decades: the proliferation of modern vehicles and their need for specialized towing equipment.

As vehicles evolve from simple mechanical machines into complex electronic powerhouses, the one-size-fits-all recovery approach is no longer an option. Today, a towing company must understand that modern vehicles require specialized equipment to manage the increased weight, sensitive drivetrains, and low-clearance designs.

The Challenge of Heavy Electric Vehicles and Drivetrain Sensitivity

The rapid adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) has reshaped the towing industry. The sheer mass of these cars is one of the industry’s most immediate hurdles. Battery packs add significant curb weight, often making a compact EV heavier than a traditional mid-sized SUV. This hefty weight requires equipment with a high towing capacity and structural integrity that surpasses older industry standards.

Compounding the problem is that more EVs and modern internal combustion engines now use sophisticated All-Wheel Drive (AWD) or Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) systems. Our team has found that many of these vehicles don’t have a true neutral gear that disengages the drivetrain. That can lead to catastrophic transmission or motor failure when they’re towed with two wheels on the ground. Specialized equipment, such as the Collins Hi-Speed® Dolly, allows operators to lift all four wheels. This ensures the vehicle remains a passive load and prevents expensive insurance claims.

Protecting Low-Clearance and Exotic Body Designs

Modern vehicle styling emphasizes aerodynamics, which results in lower ground clearance and extended front overhangs. We’ve seen operators struggle to load these low-pro vehicles onto traditional flatbeds without the front valence or side skirts scraping the deck. This is where the Collins Carrier Dolly becomes an essential tool. By using the dolly to slightly elevate the vehicle before it ever touches the tilt bed, you provide white-glove service that protects the client’s investment.

Standardizing these procedures is a win for your business. We know that safety increases when employees are trained to perform tasks consistently, each and every time. Using specialized dollies allows your crew to handle luxury, exotic, and low-clearance vehicles with the same consistent, damage-free results.

Advanced Safety Features for Extreme Recovery Conditions

Towing professionals aren’t working in a lab environment – they’re working on highways, in snowbanks, and on gravel shoulders. Specialized towing equipment for modern vehicles must be built for these extreme conditions. Our G7X Super Dolly® was specifically engineered for harsh environments and features iron construction and a safety ratchet system.

This system serves as a critical secondary safety measure, preventing the vehicle from dropping unexpectedly if a grip slips during the lifting process. When you’re operating on ice or slippery slopes, having equipment that clicks into place gives you the confidence to work efficiently by mitigating the risk of physical harm or equipment failure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I tow an AWD with two wheels on the ground?

No. Towing most modern AWD vehicles with two wheels on the ground can cause severe damage to the transfer case or transmission. We recommend using a full set of dollies or a flatbed to keep all wheels off the ground during transport.

Why is weight a concern for modern EVs?

Electric vehicles are significantly heavier than their gas-powered counterparts due to large lithium-ion battery packs. These modern vehicles need specialized towing equipment with higher load ratings, such as the G7X Super Dolly®, which supports an industry-leading 5,120 lbs.

The ROI of Investing in Specialized Towing Equipment for Modern Vehicles

While the initial investment in specialized gear may seem higher, the long-term profitability is undeniable. Durable, high-quality equipment pays for itself through reduced downtime and lower insurance payouts for damaged vehicles. Collins Manufacturing’s equipment also reduces the physical strain on your operators, helping combat labor shortages by making the job less taxing.

Ready to invest in your fleet’s future? Contact us today to learn more about our Hi-Speed® and Carrier dollies.