EV vs Gas Fuel Cost Calculator
Example: Miles driven per year: 12000 mi · Years to compare: 5 years · Gas car MPG: 28 mpg · Gas price: 3.5 $/gal · EV efficiency: 3.5 mi/kWh · Electricity price: 0.16 $/kWh
| EV energy savings (total) | $4,757 |
| Gas fuel cost | $7,500 |
| EV energy cost | $2,743 |
| Savings per year | $951 |
Worked example
Driving 12,000 miles a year in a 28-MPG gas car at $3.50 a gallon burns about 428 gallons, or roughly $1,500 a year, which is $7,500 over five years. The same miles in an EV at 3.5 miles per kWh use about 3,430 kWh a year, and at $0.16 per kWh that is about $549 a year, or $2,743 over five years. The EV saves roughly $4,760 in energy alone over five years, about $952 a year.
Frequently asked questions
Does this include the higher purchase price of an EV?
No. This tool isolates the running energy cost, which is where EVs usually win. To judge the whole decision, weigh these fuel savings against any purchase-price premium and available tax credits, and consider battery and maintenance differences.
What if I charge on public fast chargers?
Public DC fast charging costs much more per kWh than home charging, sometimes approaching gas-equivalent costs. Enter a blended electricity price that reflects your mix of home and public charging for a realistic result.
How do I find my EV efficiency and my car MPG?
The federal fuel-economy site publishes MPG for gas cars and miles-per-kWh (or kWh per 100 miles) for EVs. Real-world numbers vary with climate, speed, and terrain, so adjust down in cold weather or heavy highway driving.
What about maintenance savings?
EVs typically save on oil changes, brakes, and engine service, which this fuel-only tool does not count. If you want the full comparison, add those savings on top of the energy figure shown here.