Compare the cost of driving an EV versus a gas car to find your potential annual savings.
EV vs Gas Savings Calculator
LiveThe formula
12,000 miles/year: an EV at 3.5 mi/kWh and $0.15/kWh costs $514.29/year; a 30mpg gas car at $3.50/gallon costs $1,400/year - a savings of $885.71/year.
Step-by-step guide
- Enter your annual miles driven.
- Enter your EV's efficiency and your home electricity rate.
- Enter the gas car's MPG and local gas price to compare.
Why this comparison focuses on fuel cost specifically
Total cost of ownership between an EV and a gas car involves several factors beyond fuel - purchase price, financing, insurance, maintenance, and depreciation all differ between the two, and vary significantly by specific make and model. This calculator isolates just the ongoing fuel/energy cost, which is often the most consistently lower cost for EVs and the easiest piece to estimate reliably without needing model-specific pricing data. For a complete financial picture, add your own estimates for the other cost categories on top of this fuel savings figure.
Common mistakes
Frequently asked questions
Does this account for the higher upfront price of many EVs?
No - this covers ongoing fuel/energy cost only. A full cost comparison would also factor in purchase price difference, any tax incentives, and how many years of driving it takes for fuel savings to offset a higher upfront cost.
Are EV maintenance costs really lower?
EVs generally have fewer moving parts (no oil changes, fewer fluids) which often reduces routine maintenance costs, though this varies by model and isn't included in this fuel-focused calculator.
How do I find my EV's real-world efficiency?
Check your vehicle's dashboard or app, which typically tracks actual miles per kWh over time - this is usually more accurate for your driving style and climate than the official window-sticker rating.
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