Electric vs Gas: The Cost per Mile Comparison

When considering whether to switch to an electric vehicle (EV) or stick with a conventional gas car, understanding the cost comparisons is crucial. In this article, we delve into the nuances of the cost per mile, exploring factors that affect these costs and real-world examples from various charging situations.

The Factors Affecting Cost per Mile

Several elements come into play when determining the cost per mile for both electric and gas vehicles. These include the size of the vehicle, its power output, weather conditions, the cost of electricity, and the cost of gas, which can vary significantly across different regions and countries.

On average, it costs about 1/3 as much per mile to charge an electric car compared to a similar-sized gas car. For instance, it might cost around 0.03 per mile to charge an electric car, whereas it could cost 0.08 to 0.10 per mile for a comparably sized gas car.

How You Charge Makes a Difference

The most significant factor in determining the cost per mile of an electric car is how you charge it. Here are some scenarios to consider:

Home Charging

Charging at home typically offers the best cost advantage. If you charge using the residential electrical rate, which might be around 0.12 per kW, the electricity cost per mile is relatively low. Let's break it down further:

You can charge at an average rate of 18 cents per kWh. One kWh will get you approximately 4.4 miles. Therefore, the cost to travel 440 miles is about 18 dollars.

Consider that you have solar panels and a battery, which means you can potentially drive for free. This scenario makes home charging even more attractive for cost-conscious consumers.

Work and Public Charging

Workplaces or public locations like libraries, town halls, and malls might offer free or cheap charging options. However, relying solely on commercial public charging stations can get expensive. Public fast chargers, which require a fee to recoup their costs, can cost more than 0.50 per kWh, significantly increasing the cost per mile.

Real-World Examples

To illustrate the cost differences, let's look at some real-world examples:

UK Study

A recent study in the UK found that the cost of charging an electric vehicle was approximately 18 pence per mile, while the cost of a gas car was 27 pence per mile. This example highlights the variability in costs depending on the region and infrastructure.

Keep in mind that these costs are based on average fuel expenses; purchase prices and other variables were not included.

Conclusion

While the cost per mile for electric vehicles can be significantly lower compared to gas cars in many cases, numerous factors influence these costs. Home charging remains one of the most cost-effective options, but public charging can vary widely. Understanding and evaluating these factors can help you make an informed decision about whether to transition to an electric vehicle.