Question 1

Are electric cars really cheaper to fuel than gas cars?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in virtually all cases. The average EV costs about $0.04 per mile for electricity, while the average gas car costs $0.10–$0.15 per mile at $3.50/gallon. Even in expensive electricity states like California, EVs cost less per mile than gas vehicles.

Question 2

How much do you save per year driving an EV vs gas?

Accepted Answer

At average electricity and gas prices, a driver covering 12,775 miles per year saves roughly $800–$1,200 annually on fuel alone by driving electric. Higher-mileage drivers and those with cheap electricity save even more.

Question 3

Do EVs produce zero emissions?

Accepted Answer

EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, but the electricity they use may come from fossil fuel power plants. On average, an EV in the US produces about 60–70% less CO2 than a comparable gas car when accounting for power generation. In states with clean grids, the reduction is even greater.

Question 4

Is the total cost of ownership lower for EVs?

Accepted Answer

Generally yes. Besides lower fuel costs, EVs have fewer moving parts and lower maintenance costs—no oil changes, fewer brake replacements due to regenerative braking, and no transmission service. Over 5 years, total ownership savings can reach $6,000–$10,000 compared to a gas car.

Question 5

How do EV fuel costs compare when electricity is expensive?

Accepted Answer

Even at California’s high residential rate of about 27.6¢/kWh, an EV costs roughly $0.07 per mile—still cheaper than a 28 MPG gas car at $3.50/gallon ($0.125/mile). The break-even point where EVs lose their fuel advantage is around 45–50¢/kWh, which virtually no US residential rate reaches.

Gas vs Electric Cost Comparison

Cost Comparison

🔋 Electric (EV)

⛽ Gas

Recommended Products

Level 2 EV Home Charger

Smart Energy Monitor

Frequently Asked Questions

Try Our Other Calculators

Charging Cost

Charging Time

Charger ROI

Range

Tax Credits

Bill Impact