EV vs Petrol Cost Calculator
EV energy cost = miles ÷ miles/kWh × electricity rate. Petrol fuel cost = miles ÷ MPG × 4.546 × fuel price per litre. Compare annually to see which is cheaper for your usage.
Is an EV cheaper to run than a petrol car? This calculator compares estimated annual running costs side by side based on your mileage, vehicle efficiency, and current energy prices.
This is a running-cost comparison estimate, not a full cost-of-ownership calculator. It does not include purchase price, depreciation, or finance costs.
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What this calculator does
This calculator estimates and compares annual running costs for an EV and a petrol car. It includes energy/fuel costs, and optionally maintenance and road tax. Results show cost per mile, monthly, and annual comparisons.
Who it is for
Anyone considering switching from petrol to electric, EV owners wanting to quantify savings, and people comparing running costs to inform a vehicle purchase decision.
How to use it
Enter your annual mileage. Set EV efficiency (miles/kWh) and your electricity rate. Adjust the home vs public charging split. Set petrol car MPG and fuel price. Optionally add maintenance and road tax figures. Click 'See My Result' to compare.
How the calculation works
EV cost: total kWh needed = miles ÷ miles/kWh. Home and public charging costs are calculated separately based on percentage split. Petrol cost: litres needed = miles ÷ MPG × 4.546 litres/gallon. Each is multiplied by the relevant rate.
Worked example
8,000 miles/year: EV at 3.5 mi/kWh, 80% home charging at 24.5p, 20% public at 65p = £742/year. Petrol at 40 MPG, 145p/litre = £1,318/year. EV saves £576/year (£48/month).
Assumptions and limitations
- EV efficiency varies by model, driving style, and conditions — winter range is typically 20-30% lower
- Electricity rates vary by tariff, time of use, and supplier
- Public charging rates vary significantly by provider and speed
- Does not include purchase price, depreciation, finance, or insurance
- Maintenance estimates are optional and approximate
- Results are estimates based on user-entered assumptions
Frequently asked questions
Is an EV cheaper to run than a petrol car?
In most cases, yes. Electricity is significantly cheaper per mile than petrol, especially if you charge at home. Typical EV running costs are 5-8p/mile vs 15-20p/mile for petrol.
How do I compare EV charging cost with petrol cost?
Calculate the cost per mile for each: EV = electricity rate ÷ miles per kWh. Petrol = (fuel price × 4.546) ÷ MPG. Multiply each by your annual mileage to compare.
How much can I save by switching to an EV?
It depends on your mileage and energy prices. A typical UK driver doing 8,000 miles/year could save £400-£700/year on fuel costs alone by switching to an EV.
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Sources and references
Ofgem electricity rates (https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/check-if-energy-price-cap-affects-you), RAC fuel prices (https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/advice/fuel-watch/), Zap-Map public charging costs (https://www.zap-map.com/ev-stats/how-much-to-charge-an-ev)
Last updated
Last reviewed: 2026-04-12.