Gas vs. Electric Vehicle (EV) Cost Calculator
Compare 5-year fuel versus electricity expenses, routine maintenance, and net vehicle depreciation objectively.
Decision Parameters & Inputs
Gasoline Vehicle
Electric Vehicle (EV)
Estimated Comparison Results
Over a 5-year horizon driving 13,500 miles annually, the Electric Vehicle has an estimated total cost of ownership that is $7,170 lower than the gasoline vehicle ($33,525 vs. $40,695). Lower fuel and maintenance costs provide ongoing operating savings of approximately $1,350 per year.
Metric by Metric Comparison
Direct side-by-side evaluation of acquisition, energy expenditure, and ongoing operating parameters.
| Metric | Option AInternal Combustion (Gas) | Option BElectric Vehicle (EV) | Estimated Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Estimated 5-Year Total Cost of OwnershipNet vehicle depreciation plus fuel/electricity, scheduled maintenance, and insurance. | $40,695 | $33,525 | $7,170 |
| Annual Fuel / Energy ExpenseBased on 13,500 miles/yr. Gas: $3.65/gal @ 29 mpg. EV: $0.16/kWh @ 3.4 mi/kWh. | $1,699 / yr | $699 / yr | $1,000 / yr |
| Energy Cost Per Mile DrivenDirect energy fuel expense per single mile driven. | $0.126 / mi | $0.052 / mi | $0.074 / mi |
| Annual Routine MaintenanceEV powertrain eliminates oil changes, spark plugs, and reduces brake wear via regenerative braking. | $1150 / yr | $550 / yr | $600 / yr |
| Estimated Resale Residual ValueEstimated vehicle asset value remaining at end of Year 5. | $16,800 | $18,920 | $2,120 |
Cumulative Cost Components
Categorized sum of all cash outflows and net residual asset value across the operating horizon.
Cost Breakdown by Category
Category-level expense and capital outflow comparison over the selected time horizon.
| Category | Gas Vehicle | Electric Vehicle | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Acquisition & Net DepreciationInitial vehicle price (+ EV charger - tax credits) minus estimated residual resale value. | $18,200 | $17,780 | $420 |
| 5-Year Fuel & Electricity OutlayCumulative energy costs over 67,500 total miles. | $8,495 | $3,495 | $5,000 |
| Routine Powertrain Maintenance & WearTires, brakes, fluid inspections, scheduled manufacturer checkups. | $5,750 | $2,750 | $3,000 |
| Vehicle Comprehensive InsuranceMulti-year insurance policy premiums. | $8,250 | $9,500 | $1,250 |
| Total Outflow | $40,695 | $33,525 | $7,170 |
Assumptions & Limitations
US Department of Transportation average driving distance is approximately 13,500 miles annually.
Reflects off-peak or standard residential electric service rates, including Level 2 AC conversion thermal loss.
Electric drivetrains have approximately 90% fewer moving parts, eliminating exhaust, transmission fluid, and engine oil upkeep.
Depreciation rates vary based on battery technology evolution, market incentives, and brand retention curves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the electricity cost for charging calculated?
Electricity cost divides annual miles by vehicle efficiency (miles per kilowatt-hour) and multiplies by your residential electric tariff, adding a 10% factor for AC-to-DC onboard charging inefficiencies.
Does this model factor in commercial public fast charging (DCFC)?
This default model assumes residential Level 2 overnight charging. If you rely primarily on public Level 3 fast chargers (which frequently bill at $0.35 to $0.50 per kWh), you can adjust the electricity cost per kWh input upward accordingly.
Why does EV insurance typically cost slightly more?
Higher average purchase prices, specialized high-voltage collision repair requirements, and limited certified body shops can currently elevate comprehensive physical damage collision rates for electric vehicles.