EV vs. Gas Car Cost Calculator
Gas Vehicle
Electric Vehicle
EV vs Gas: 5-Year Cost Comparison at 12,000 Miles/Year
Assumes $3.50/gal, 28 MPG, $0.14/kWh, 3.5 mi/kWh. Includes estimated maintenance difference.
| Year | Gas Total Cost | EV Total Cost | Cumulative Savings | CO₂ Saved (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,500 | $480 | $1,020 | 8,400 |
| 2 | $3,000 | $960 | $2,540 | 16,800 |
| 3 | $4,500 | $1,440 | $4,060 | 25,200 |
| 4 | $6,000 | $1,920 | $5,580 | 33,600 |
| 5 | $7,500 | $2,400 | $7,100 | 42,000 |
How We Calculate This
This ev vs. gas car cost calculator uses established formulas and industry-standard data to provide accurate estimates.
- Enter your specific values into the calculator fields above
- Our algorithm applies the relevant formulas using your inputs
- Results are calculated instantly in your browser — nothing is sent to a server
- Review the detailed breakdown to understand how each factor affects your result
These calculations are estimates based on standard formulas. For critical decisions, always consult a qualified professional.
How to Convert Oven Recipes to Air Fryer
This calculator compares the total cost of ownership between an electric vehicle and a gas car, including fuel costs, maintenance savings, and purchase price difference.
The basic rule:
- Gas fuel cost = (annual miles / MPG) × gas price per gallon
- EV fuel cost = (annual miles / EV efficiency) × electricity rate per kWh
- Break-even point = price difference / (annual gas cost − annual EV cost + maintenance savings)
- CO₂ savings based on EPA average of 19.6 lbs CO₂ per gallon of gas burned
EVs typically save $800–$1,500/year in fuel and $500+/year in maintenance. However, the higher purchase price means it may take 3–7 years to break even. Consider available tax credits ($7,500 federal) which can dramatically shorten the payback period.
When Would You Use This Calculator?
This ev vs. gas car cost calculator is designed for anyone who needs quick, reliable estimates without complex spreadsheets or professional consultations.
- When you need a quick estimate before committing to a purchase or project
- When comparing different options or scenarios side by side
- When planning a budget and need to understand potential costs
- When you want to verify a quote or estimate you've received from a professional
- When teaching or learning about the concepts behind these calculations
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Pennsylvania handle this differently?
Pennsylvania has its own specific rules, rates, and limits that may differ significantly from federal guidelines or other states. This calculator uses Pennsylvania-specific data where available. Always verify with a local professional for important decisions.
How much cheaper is it to fuel an EV vs a gas car?
On average, EV drivers spend 60-70% less on fuel. At national averages ($3.50/gal gas, $0.14/kWh electricity), driving 12,000 miles costs about $1,500 in gas but only $480 in electricity. Exact savings depend on local gas and electricity prices.
What is a good EV efficiency rating?
Most modern EVs achieve 3-4 miles per kWh. Efficient models like the Tesla Model 3 and Hyundai Ioniq 6 get 4+ mi/kWh, while larger EVs like trucks may get 2-2.5 mi/kWh. The default 3.5 mi/kWh represents a typical mid-size EV.
How long does it take for an EV to pay for itself?
Typically 4-7 years when comparing similar vehicle classes. If the EV costs $6,000 more and saves $1,500/year in fuel plus $500 in maintenance, break-even is about 3 years. Federal and state tax credits can reduce this to under 2 years.
Do EVs really save on maintenance?
Yes. EVs have no oil changes, transmission fluid, spark plugs, or timing belts. Brake pads last 2-3x longer due to regenerative braking. Average EV maintenance is $0.03/mile vs $0.06/mile for gas cars — roughly $400/year savings on 12,000 miles.
How much CO₂ does switching to an EV save?
A gas car averaging 28 MPG emits about 8,400 lbs of CO₂ per 12,000 miles. Even accounting for power plant emissions from charging, an EV produces roughly 50-70% less CO₂. In areas with clean grids (hydro, solar, wind), savings are even greater.
Does home charging vs public charging affect the comparison?
Significantly. Home charging at off-peak rates ($0.08-0.12/kWh) is cheapest. DC fast charging stations charge $0.30-0.60/kWh, which cuts into savings. If you rely entirely on fast charging, your fuel savings vs gas drop from ~70% to ~30-40%.