EV vs Petrol Running Costs (UK) 2026
Annual running cost (fuel or charging)
Fuel and electricity only. Insurance, tax, servicing and purchase price are not included, and they can change the overall result.
Guide
This calculator compares the yearly fuel or charging cost of an electric car with a petrol or diesel car, using the mileage and prices you enter.
How It Works
The petrol cost uses your fuel economy in UK miles per gallon and your fuel price per litre. The electric cost uses your miles per kWh, with a blend of home and public charging prices.
What Is Not Included
Insurance, road tax, servicing, tyres and the purchase or finance cost are not included. An EV can be cheaper on fuel but more expensive on purchase, so check the full cost before deciding.
Tip
Home charging is usually much cheaper than public rapid charging. Check your own tariff, as prices vary.
EV vs Petrol Running Costs Explained (UK)
1. Are electric cars cheaper to run?
On fuel alone, they are usually cheaper, especially with home charging. The full running cost also depends on insurance, tax and servicing.
2. How is the EV cost calculated?
Annual miles are divided by miles per kWh to get the electricity used, then multiplied by the blended home and public charging price.
3. How is the petrol cost calculated?
Annual miles are divided by MPG to get the gallons used, converted to litres, then multiplied by the fuel price.