EV vs Petrol Running Costs Calculator
Compare the annual energy cost of driving an EV versus a petrol car. Enter your mileage and efficiency figures to see the difference.
Frequently asked questions
Is an electric car cheaper to run than petrol?
In almost all cases, yes. The energy cost per mile for an EV charged at home is typically 5-7p compared to 14-18p for a petrol car. Even with some public charging, EVs are roughly 50-60% cheaper to fuel. The savings increase with mileage.
Does this include VED and insurance?
No, this calculator compares energy/fuel costs only. For a complete comparison including VED, insurance, servicing, and depreciation, use the True Cost of Ownership calculator.
How much can I save per year switching to EV?
A driver covering 10,000 miles per year in a 40 MPG petrol car spending around £1,600 on fuel could reduce that to around £700 with an EV charged mostly at home — a saving of roughly £900 per year.
Are EVs still cheaper if I can only charge publicly?
Public charging at 65-79p per kWh significantly narrows the gap. An EV driver doing 100% public rapid charging may spend only marginally less than a petrol driver. Home charging is where the biggest savings come from.
These calculations are estimates based on 2026/27 HMRC and DVLA rates. Speak to a lender or qualified financial adviser for a personalised quote.