Are you considering making the switch from an internal combustion engine (ICE) car to an electric vehicle (EV)?

Maybe you want to do something good for the environment or simply escape ever rising petrol and diesel prices. Whatever your reason is, comparing electric car vs petrol car costs will help you understand any outgoings associated with EV ownership.

The automotive industry is witnessing a shift towards electric vehicles as an alternative to traditional petrol and diesel cars. With concerns about climate change, pollution and the sustainability of fossil fuels, more drivers are beginning to evaluate their options, comparing EVs to traditional, fuel-powered cars.

With the sale of new petrol cars due to be banned in major cities and countries across the world by 2035, it’s worth considering the potential savings and future-proofing an electric car can offer you.

Below, we’ll look at various aspects of electric, petrol and diesel cars - including environmental impact, costs and driving experience - to help determine whether electric cars are better than gas and diesel cars.

PURCHASING PRICE

EVs still tend to cost more than ICE cars of similar size and specification, although their prices are coming down.

EVERYDAY USE COSTS

EVs are generally cheaper to run after the acquisition, than for ICE cars.

MAINTENANCE

Data shows that EVs cost less to service and maintain than petrol cars. The main reasons are; applicable tax exemptions and lower fuel costs.

COMPARISON TABLE

Electric and traditional cars operate differently, with the main difference being how these vehicles are fuelled. Below, we’ll explore other key differences between fuel-powered and electric vehicles to help you consider your options:

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Emissions: ICE vs. Battery power

EVs are powered by a battery within the vehicle that can be charged externally. Because they are powered by electricity, they do not produce tailpipe emissions. Plug-in and hybrid vehicles will produce some emissions, but not as much as cars with an internal combustion engine.

The overall reduction in emissions drives sales of electric vehicles, as more drivers consider their carbon footprint and the harmful effects of emissions on the environment.

A study carried out into the difference in emissions between ICE and battery-powered vehicles found that electric cars save between 2-3 tonnes of CO2 produced by fuel-powered counterparts each year.

Weight: Feel in control on the road with an EV

Electric vehicles are heavier than those with fuel-powered engines. This is because of the large internal battery pack. Whilst electric vehicles are said to weigh around 20-30% more than ICE vehicles, you won’t feel much of a difference on the road.

When driving an electric vehicle, you might find that you feel more in control due to the lower centre of gravity. This results in a safer and more stable driving experience.

Speed: Travel more quickly with an EV

A common question amongst drivers: are electric cars faster than normal cars? When it comes to cars, quick and fast have different meanings. Electric cars are quicker than cars with internal combustion engines. This refers to the time it takes to get from one place to another.

This is due to the torque created by the battery, as well as the battery and motor turning the wheels more quickly for faster acceleration.

Cost: Save money on fuel with an EV

As the main difference between electric and ICE vehicles, weighing up the cost of both is essential. With the cost of living increasing - including the cost of fuel — drivers are finding it more expensive to fill up their tanks when needed. A solution to this could be to switch to an EV. 

Regardless of how far you drive, petrol cars typically cost 2X as much to fuel as electric cars. Looking at this per mile, an EV is likely to cost around 9p per mile, with an ICE vehicle costing approximately 18p. If you drive long distances, making the switch to a hybrid or an electric car will save you approximately half of what you spend on fuel per mile. Find out more in our guide to electric car charging costs.

Driving smoothly on every journey with an EV

Driving experience differs between EVs and ICE vehicles. Along with a low centre of gravity, electric cars provide a more comfortable journey for both drivers and passengers than you might find with a traditional fuel-powered car.

A battery-powered EV is noticeably quieter than a car with an internal combustion engine, reducing noise pollution and making for a more ambient experience.

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