EV vs Petrol Savings Calculator
Updated on 22 Oct 2026 · Checked by Aotob
Driving 10,000 miles a year, an EV saves about $903 a year.
The $5,000 higher price is paid back in 5.5 years.
You save a year
$903
Charging at home on a cheap night rate saves the most. Mostly using public rapid chargers can wipe out the saving.
Show the working
Fuel 1,143 − charging 540 + servicing 300 = 903 a year (10% charging loss)
Running cost over 10 years
Savings by yearly distance
| miles a year | Saving a year | Payback |
|---|---|---|
| 5,000 | 602 | 8.3 yrs |
| 7,500 | 752 | 6.6 yrs |
| 10,000 | 903 | 5.5 yrs |
| 15,000 | 1,205 | 4.2 yrs |
| 20,000 | 1,506 | 3.3 yrs |
Questions people ask
Is an EV cheaper to run?
Usually, if you charge at home: electricity per mile is often a third to a half of petrol. Servicing is cheaper too, with no oil changes.
What about insurance and tax?
EV insurance can cost more. Road tax and incentives differ by country and change often, so add them to the extra price if they apply.
What if I rely on public chargers?
Then the saving can shrink to little or nothing. Use your real mix of home and public prices.
Updated 22 Oct 2026Source: Standard maths; typical prices are averages, checked October 2026Checked by AotobRunning costs only; resale values and incentives vary.Report an issue