EV vs Compact Car: How Much Does 5 Years of Ownership Really Cost?
EVs have lower fuel costs and skip combustion-engine maintenance like oil changes, but insurance and registration tend to run a bit higher than for a compact gas car. Compact cars have cheaper insurance and lower purchase-adjacent fees, but gas and routine maintenance add up faster. This calculator uses 3.3 mi/kWh at $0.14/kWh for the EV and 35 mpg at $3.50/gallon for the compact car, then adds typical average insurance, registration, and maintenance costs to total up 5 years of ownership.
Just enter your annual mileage to see each vehicle's yearly cost, 5-year total, and the difference between them at a glance. Generally, the more you drive, the more an EV's fuel savings compound in its favor; drive less, and a compact car's lower fixed costs matter more. Keep in mind this doesn't include the purchase price — factor in that gap separately when deciding between the two.
Frequently Asked Questions
The more you drive, the more an EV's fuel savings pay off. Lower mileage tends to favor a compact car's lower fixed costs.
No, it only compares annual fuel, insurance, registration, and maintenance costs after purchase.
EVs skip oil changes, spark plugs, and other combustion-engine items, though battery repairs can be costly if needed.