EV vs Petrol Cost Per KM

One of the simplest ways to compare electric vehicles with petrol cars is cost per kilometre. Purchase price matters, but day to day running cost is where EVs often save money over time.

In many cases, an EV charged at home costs much less per kilometre than a petrol vehicle. The exact difference depends on electricity price, fuel price, EV efficiency, and petrol consumption.

How to compare EV vs petrol cost per km

EV cost per kilometre is based on electricity price and energy use, usually measured in kWh per 100 km. Petrol cost per kilometre is based on fuel price and litres per 100 km.

EV cost per km example

If an electric vehicle uses 16 kWh per 100 km and home electricity costs $0.30 per kWh:

Petrol cost per km example

If a petrol car uses 8 litres per 100 km and petrol costs $2.00 per litre:

Zeekr 7X worked example

If a Zeekr 7X Performance AWD uses 19.9 kWh per 100 km and you charge at home at $0.30 per kWh:

Example comparison

Over thousands of kilometres, that difference can become significant. The exact savings depend on your vehicle, your tariff, and your local fuel prices, but EVs often come out ahead on running cost when charged at home.

Why EV running costs are often lower

Electric motors are much more efficient than petrol engines. A petrol engine loses a lot of energy as heat, while an electric motor converts more of its stored energy into movement. That efficiency advantage is a big reason EV cost per kilometre is often lower.

When petrol can compare better

Petrol vehicles can look more competitive if public fast charging prices are high, if the EV is inefficient, or if a petrol car is especially fuel efficient. That is why it is useful to calculate your own numbers rather than rely on generic examples.

Use the calculators

You can use the calculators below to estimate your own EV charging cost, charging time, and electricity cost per kilometre.

Frequently asked questions