EV vs Gas Calculator
See how much you save by switching to electric
Compare the total cost of ownership between Electric Vehicles (EV) and Gas cars.
Use This Calculator in Minutes
Compare the total cost of ownership between Electric Vehicles (EV) and Gas cars over time.
Compare scenarios like
- Tesla Model 3 vs Toyota Camry
- Hybrid vs Electric SUV
- Gas savings over 5 years
You will see
- Total 5-year cost comparison
- Break-even point analysis
- Visual cost breakdown
Quick Result
Over 5 years, the EV will save you $51,550.00 in total ownership costs.
Based on
- • Gas Price: $3.50/gal
- • Electric Rate: $0.15/kWh
- • Distance: 12,000 miles/year
- • Period: 5 years
Gas / Hybrid Vehicle
Electric Vehicle
Usage & Energy
Go Electric!
Over 5 years, the EV will save you $51,550.00 in total ownership costs.
Gas TCO
Total 5yr Cost
$80,500.00
EV TCO
Total 5yr Cost
$28,950.00
Cumulative Cost (Net)
Cost Components (Total)
This tool is for illustrative purposes only and does not constitute professional financial, tax, or legal advice. Calculations are estimates and may not reflect real-world variables or local regulations. Always consult with a qualified professional before making financial decisions.
Methodology and Trust
Formulas
Total Cost of Ownership
TCO = Purchase Price + (Annual OpEx × Years) - Resale Value
- • Purchase Price: Initial cost of the vehicle
- • Annual OpEx: Fuel + Maintenance + Insurance
- • Resale Value: Estimated value at end of period
The Economics of Going Electric
Key Insights & Concepts
Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) is the only metric that matters when comparing Gas vs. Electric. While EVs often have a higher "sticker price," they operate on a fundamentally different economic model: you pay more upfront to pay significantly less per mile forever.
For a direct ownership model, run the car total cost of ownership calculator plus the auto total cost of ownership breakdown and then compare with the focused 5-year TCO view.
Where EVs Win (The Savings)
Fuel Arbitrage
Electricity is cheap and stable. Charging at home costs equivalent to ~$1.00/gallon. You bypass not just the cost of gas, but the volatility of oil markets.
Maintenance Simplification
An internal combustion engine has ~2,000 moving parts. An EV motor has ~20. No oil changes, no transmission fluid, no spark plugs, no timing belts.
The Hidden Costs of EVs
- Tire Wear: EVs are heavy and have instant torque. Expect to replace tires 20-30% more frequently than on a gas car.
- Insurance Premiums: Currently, EVs cost 15-25% more to insure because collision repairs require specialized labor and parts are expensive.
- Depreciation Volatility: EV technology is improving like smartphones. A 5-year-old EV with 250 miles range might be worth less if new $25k models offer 400 miles range.
- Home Charging Setup: A standard wall outlet (Level 1) is too slow for most. Installing a Level 2 charger costs $800-$2,000 but adds value to your home.
Battery Health Realities
"Will I need to replace the battery?" is the #1 fear. Valid data from Tesla and Nissan shows modern liquid-cooled batteries retain ~90% capacity after 200,000 miles. The battery will likely outlast the chassis of the car.