Gas Vs Electric Car Calculator
With rising fuel prices and more electric vehicle (EV) options, choosing between a gas-powered car and an electric car can be confusing. Our Gas vs Electric Car Calculator makes it simple to estimate annual costs for both types of vehicles and determine potential savings.
Whether you're buying a new car or evaluating long-term ownership costs, this calculator helps you make an informed decision by considering miles driven, gas prices, MPG, electric rates, and vehicle efficiency.
How to Use the Gas vs Electric Car Calculator
- Enter the miles you drive per year in the “Miles Driven Per Year” field.
- Input your gas price per gallon.
- Enter your gas car’s MPG (miles per gallon).
- Input your electricity rate per kWh.
- Enter your electric car’s efficiency in kWh per 100 miles.
- Click Calculate to see:
- Gas Car Annual Cost
- Electric Car Annual Cost
- Annual Savings
This calculator instantly displays your results, allowing you to see which option is more cost-effective.
Example Calculation
Suppose you drive 12,000 miles per year, gas costs $3.50 per gallon, your gas car gets 25 MPG, electricity costs $0.13 per kWh, and your EV uses 30 kWh/100 miles:
- Gas Car Cost: (12,000 ÷ 25) × $3.50 = $1,680
- Electric Car Cost: (12,000 ÷ 100) × 30 × $0.13 = $468
- Annual Savings: $1,680 − $468 = $1,212
This shows that, in this scenario, an electric car could save you over $1,200 per year in energy costs alone.
Benefits of Using This Calculator
- Quick Comparison: Get instant estimates for both gas and electric vehicles.
- Cost Awareness: Understand potential long-term savings with an EV.
- Budget Planning: Helps in calculating yearly transportation expenses.
- Decision Support: Assists in making a smarter choice between gas and electric vehicles.
15 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the main difference in costs between gas and electric cars?
Gas cars rely on fuel prices, while electric cars depend on electricity rates and efficiency. - Can I use this calculator for hybrid vehicles?
Yes, enter the hybrid’s gas MPG and electricity usage as applicable. - Do electricity rates vary?
Yes, local rates differ. Enter your exact rate for accurate calculations. - Is this calculator suitable for multiple vehicles?
Yes, you can input values for any gas or electric car. - Does this account for maintenance costs?
No, it only calculates fuel/electricity costs. - What is electric car efficiency?
Measured in kWh per 100 miles, it indicates energy consumption. - Can I include long road trips?
Yes, adjust “Miles Driven Per Year” to include all travel. - How often should I update gas and electricity prices?
Prices fluctuate, so update values periodically for accurate calculations. - Does driving style affect results?
Yes, aggressive driving can increase fuel or electricity consumption. - Are electric cars always cheaper?
Usually, they have lower energy costs, but initial purchase and other factors matter. - Can this calculator be used internationally?
Yes, just convert local currency and energy units accordingly. - How precise are the results?
The calculator is accurate for estimating annual costs based on inputs. - Can I use it for commercial vehicles?
Yes, adjust miles and efficiency to reflect commercial use. - Does it include taxes or incentives?
No, it calculates only energy costs; tax credits are separate. - What if my gas car has variable MPG?
Use the average MPG over your usual driving conditions.
Conclusion
The Gas vs Electric Car Calculator helps you compare annual fuel and electricity costs easily and identify potential savings. By inputting your driving habits, fuel prices, and vehicle efficiency, you can see whether a gas or electric car is more economical for your situation.
With this tool, you can make smarter, data-driven decisions, save money, and plan for a sustainable driving future.