Amber light
Low Traction Battery Charge
The high-voltage battery of an electric or plug-in hybrid car is low and needs charging soon.
Normal risk
Plan a charging stop now. Range shown on the display may drop faster in cold weather or at high speed.
Short answer · How far can I drive when the low battery charge light comes on?
It depends on the car, speed and temperature; the range display is your best guide. Reduce speed, switch off heating or air conditioning you do not need, and head to the nearest charger.
What to do
- Find a chargerUse the navigation or an app to find the nearest compatible charger.
- Save energyReduce speed and turn down heating or air conditioning.
- Avoid running flatIf the battery runs out, the car stops and must be towed or charged on site.
How is the light behaving?
| What you see | What it usually means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Steady | Battery charge is low | Charge soon |
| Flashing | Charge is very low; power may be reduced | Charge as soon as possible |
Possible causes
- Battery nearly emptyNormal use has drained the battery.
- Cold weatherLow temperatures reduce usable range.
- High speed or heavy loadMotorway speeds and towing use more energy.
Don't confuse it with
Questions about Low Traction Battery Charge
Can a plug-in hybrid still drive on low charge?
Yes, plug-in hybrids switch to the combustion engine, but the electric range is used up.