EV vs Gasoline 5-Year Cost Calculator

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⚡ EV vs Gasoline 5-Year Cost Calculator
Compare the true 5-year ownership cost of an electric vehicle vs a gas car — including purchase, fuel, maintenance, and more.
⚡ Electric Vehicle
Purchase price ($)

Federal tax credit ($)

Miles per kWh

Electricity cost ($/kWh)

Annual maintenance ($)

Home charger install ($)

⛽ Gas Car
Purchase price ($)

Tax credit ($)

Miles per gallon (MPG)

Gas price ($/gallon)

Annual maintenance ($)

🚗 Driving Assumptions
Miles driven per year

Years of ownership

Insurance difference ($/yr)

EV total cost
Gas car total cost
Difference
Fuel savings
⚡ EV Breakdown
Purchase (after credit)
Electricity cost
Maintenance
Charger install
Insurance extra
Total

⛽ Gas Car Breakdown
Purchase (after credit)
Gas cost
Maintenance
Charger install$0
Insurance extra$0
Total

📊 Year-by-year cumulative cost

EV vs Gas Car: What’s the real 5-year cost?

Electric vehicles often have a higher sticker price than comparable gas cars, but their lower fuel and maintenance costs can make them cheaper over time. This calculator compares the true total cost of ownership.

What’s included in the calculation?

Purchase price minus tax credits, fuel costs based on your actual mileage and efficiency, annual maintenance, home charger installation for the EV, and any insurance premium difference.

When does an EV become cheaper than a gas car?

With a $7,500 federal tax credit and average driving, many EVs break even within 3–5 years. High-mileage drivers in areas with cheap electricity reach break-even faster.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the $7,500 federal EV tax credit apply to all EVs?
No — eligibility depends on the vehicle’s MSRP, where it’s assembled, and your income. Check the IRS website for the current list.
Why is EV maintenance cheaper?
EVs have fewer moving parts — no oil changes, no transmission service, no exhaust system repairs. Main items are tires, brakes, and cabin air filters.
Is home charging necessary?
Not strictly, but a Level 2 home charger makes daily charging much more convenient. Installation typically costs $800–$2,000.
What about battery replacement costs?
Most EV batteries are warrantied for 8 years or 100,000 miles. Within a 5-year ownership window, battery replacement is unlikely for most drivers.

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