EV vs Petrol Cost Calculator
Compare real-world operating expenses between an Electric Vehicle (EV) and a conventional internal combustion engine (petrol/gasoline) car. Factor in annual driving mileage, electricity rates, petrol prices, vehicle efficiencies, and scheduled maintenance to calculate annual and five-year net savings in real time.
Average annual driving distance (US average: 13,500 mi)
Typical electric vehicle efficiency (e.g. 25–34 kWh/100mi)
Average residential or charging network electricity tariff
Combined fuel economy for the gasoline vehicle
Current retail gasoline pump price
Cabin air filters, tire rotations, brake fluid, wipers
Oil changes, spark plugs, belts, transmission, exhaust service
Net operating and maintenance cost reduction per year
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter your expected annual driving mileage (e.g. 13,500 miles).
- Input your electric vehicle efficiency rating (typically 28–34 kWh/100 miles) and home electricity rate.
- Enter your comparison gasoline car MPG and local pump gas price per gallon.
- Adjust estimated annual maintenance budgets for both powertrains.
- Review your immediate annual savings, 5-year financial benefit, and per-mile operating rates.
Formula & Calculation Methodology
Compares annual electrical charging energy plus maintenance against annual gasoline fuel consumption (Miles ÷ MPG × Gas_Price) plus ICE internal combustion maintenance.
Worked Example
Driving 13,500 miles/yr comparing a 30 kWh/100mi EV at $0.16/kWh vs a 28 MPG petrol car at $3.65/gal with typical maintenance differences
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are electric vehicle maintenance costs significantly lower than petrol cars?↓
EVs have approximately 20 moving parts in their drivetrain compared to over 2,000 in an internal combustion engine. EVs do not require engine oil, spark plugs, timing belts, oxygen sensors, mufflers, catalytic converters, or multi-speed automatic transmissions. Regenerative braking also dramatically extends brake pad lifespan.
Do EV tires wear out faster than tires on conventional petrol vehicles?↓
Yes. Due to instant electric torque delivery and heavy battery pack curb weight, electric vehicle tires often wear out 15% to 25% faster than comparable petrol car tires, slightly offsetting other maintenance savings.
How does relying exclusively on public DC fast chargers affect EV cost savings?↓
Commercial fast chargers frequently cost $0.35 to $0.50 per kWh, which cuts fuel savings roughly in half compared to home charging at $0.16/kWh. Maximum financial savings are achieved when charging overnight at residential rates.
What about battery degradation or replacement costs over 10 years?↓
Federal regulations in the US mandate a minimum 8-year or 100,000-mile battery warranty (10-year/150,000-mile in California). Real-world fleet data shows modern liquid-cooled lithium-ion packs retain over 85% to 90% capacity beyond 150,000 miles.
What limitation should I consider regarding purchase price premium and depreciation?↓
This calculator evaluates ongoing operational and maintenance savings. When making a buying decision, compare these operational savings against differences in vehicle upfront sticker price, federal/state tax incentives, and financing rates.
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Open calculator →Source Citation & Disclaimer
Informational tool only; not licensed tax, legal, or financial advice.