Electric vs petrol: real running costs over 10,000 miles
Fuel is where electric cars save the most money, but only if you can charge cheaply. Here's how the numbers compare over a typical year of 10,000 miles.
Fuel costs over 10,000 miles
| Car and charging | Cost per mile | 10,000 miles |
|---|---|---|
| EV, home off-peak (7p/kWh) | 2.0p | £200 |
| EV, 80% off-peak and 20% rapid charging | 6.1p | £611 |
| EV, home standard tariff (25p/kWh) | 7.1p | £714 |
| Petrol, 45 mpg at 169p a litre | 17.1p | £1,707 |
EV figures assume 3.5 miles per kWh. Even on a standard home tariff, the EV costs about £1,000 a year less in fuel than the petrol car.
Servicing and maintenance
EVs have fewer moving parts: no oil changes, spark plugs, clutch or exhaust. Regenerative braking also means pads and discs often last longer. Servicing is usually cheaper, though tyres can wear faster because EVs are heavier.
The costs people forget
Purchase price and depreciation. This is usually the biggest cost of owning any car. EVs often cost more up front, and used EV values have been volatile, so compare the total cost over the years you'll keep the car.
Insurance. EV insurance can be higher because repairs are specialised. Get quotes before you buy.
Home charger. Installing a wallbox typically costs several hundred pounds, though it pays for itself quickly through cheaper charging.
Road tax. Electric cars now pay vehicle excise duty, so don't assume tax is free.
When petrol can come out close
If you can't charge at home and rely on rapid chargers, an EV's fuel costs can match or exceed petrol. Low annual mileage also shrinks the saving, making the purchase price more important.
Run your own comparison
The EV running cost calculator compares fuel costs for your mileage and prices, and the EV comparison calculator puts up to three cars side by side. If your employer offers it, see whether EV salary sacrifice could cut the cost further.