National Highways shells out £200k to speed up clearing broken-down vehicles — including EVs!
New Kit Means Quicker Clear-Ups
National Highways has splashed £200,000 on gear and training to get stuck vehicles off the road faster. All 262 Traffic Officer vans now carry plastic skates, dubbed “Slippery Jims,” to shift “non-rolling” cars — including electric vehicles — safely out of traffic. Officers nationwide have been trained to use the new kit, cutting delays and risks on busy roads.
How the Plastic Skates Work
These clever plastic skates slide under each tyre and reduce friction, letting officers tow stranded cars smoothly to safety. It’s a game-changer for EVs, which can be badly damaged if towed the old-fashioned way due to their electric motors and no true neutral gear. Previously, officers had to hang around waiting for recovery trucks to prevent damage. Now they can act fast.
Plus, the vans now boast powerful “battery boosters” to jump-start petrol and diesel engines on the spot, meaning fewer vehicles stuck with dead batteries.
‘Faster Clearances, Safer Motorways’
Mel Clarke, National Highways Customer Service Director, said:
“No one plans to break down. But with this new equipment, we can clear stranded vehicles from live lanes quicker, making motorways safer for everyone. Before, we had to wait for recovery trucks, but now our officers can act fast, reducing delays and risks.”
The innovation supports the UK’s drive toward zero emissions by 2050. A trial in East England proved the skates 100% effective and boosters 99% reliable — so the rollout went nationwide last year.
Traffic Officers Back the Move
Dave Harford, National Highways Traffic Officer, said:
“Safety is our top priority. This gear lets us move vehicles swiftly and safely, cutting down delays and keeping traffic flowing.”
In 2021, almost 206,000 breakdowns were reported on National Highways’ roads, with over 183,000 on motorways alone. The new kit aims to cut wait times and clear lanes faster, saving the UK economy an estimated £29.8 million yearly.
Top Tips from the “Go Left” Campaign
- Go left: Use your left indicator and steer into a hard shoulder, emergency area, or lay-by. Turn on hazard lights — side and fog lights if needed.
- Get safe: Exit your car on the side away from traffic if it’s safe. If not, stay inside with seatbelt and hazards on.
- Get help: Call National Highways on 0300 123 5000, then a recovery service. If you can’t get out or feel in danger, stay put and dial 999 immediately.
