European electric vehicle breakdown trends

Reports from European automotive associations highlight distinct breakdown trends for electric vehicles (EVs) compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.

In Germany, ADAC data indicates that EV breakdowns increased by 15 percent in 2025. The primary cause of failure is not the high-voltage traction battery, but the 12-volt battery used for electronics and infotainment, which accounted for 45.4 percent of recorded breakdowns. Specific models, such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5, showed higher failure rates due to issues with the Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU), while the BMW i3 and Tesla Model 3 were noted for high reliability.

In Norway, NAF Veihjelp reports that flat batteries and starting problems are significant causes of roadside assistance during the summer. While ICE vehicles primarily experience engine stalls, EVs are overrepresented in puncture incidents, which NAF attributes to their heavier weight, the use of low-profile tires, and frequent urban driving. Notably, running out of fuel or charge was not identified as a primary driver for assistance calls in either region.