EV vs Petrol Running Costs in Australia (2026): Cost per 100 km

Short answer: charging at home, an electric car typically costs about $3 to $6 per 100 km to run, against about $16 to $21 for a petrol car using 8.5 L/100 km. Over 15,000 km a year that is roughly $1,800 to $2,500 saved on fuel alone, before lower servicing costs.

Fuel cost per 100 km

Petrol prices have swung sharply in 2026, so here is the comparison at several pump prices. The petrol car uses 8.5 L/100 km and the EV 15 kWh/100 km, which are typical figures for a mid-size car:

These are our calculations from typical consumption figures. The public charging range is from Energy Matters (April 2026), and the scenario follows SavingsMate's 15,000 km / $2.50 / 30c model. Plug in your own numbers with our EV vs petrol calculator.

Servicing

EVs have no oil, spark plugs, timing belts or exhaust, and regenerative braking saves brake pads. Typical servicing is around $300 to $500 a year, against $800 to $1,200 for a petrol car (SavingsMate). Tyres can wear slightly faster because EVs are heavier.

Purchase price and the FBT exemption

EVs still usually cost more upfront than an equivalent petrol car, but the gap has narrowed with cheaper models from BYD, MG and others. If you buy through a novated lease, the fringe benefits tax exemption can save thousands a year. It applies in full until 31 March 2027 and phases down from 1 April 2027; plug-in hybrids generally no longer qualify (Energy Matters). In the NT, EVs also get free registration and stamp duty concessions until 30 June 2027.

Insurance and depreciation

EV insurance is often slightly higher because of repair costs. Depreciation has been steep on some models as new, cheaper EVs arrive. If resale value matters, look at a used EV or a lease. See our guide to buying a used EV.

When petrol still makes sense

• No home or work charging and you rely on fast chargers. The savings shrink, though they usually don't disappear.
• Very long regional trips on routes with few fast chargers.
• Heavy towing over long distances, which cuts EV range sharply.
• Very low annual mileage, where fuel savings take years to cover a higher purchase price.

The verdict

If you can charge at home, and especially from your own solar, an EV costs a fraction of a petrol car to fuel and service. For a typical 15,000 km a year, expect to save around $2,000 a year or more on running costs. Whether that outweighs the purchase price depends on the car, the finance and how long you keep it.

Related: EV charger installation costs · total cost of EV ownership

Checked November 2026. Fuel and electricity prices change; use the calculator with today's prices.