Automotive
EV vs Gas Cost Calculator
Compare the 5-year total cost of ownership between electric and gas vehicles.
Electric vehicles cost more upfront but have dramatically lower operating costs. This calculator compares fuel savings, insurance differences, maintenance costs, and the federal iZEV rebate to show your true 5-year cost comparison.
Total Cost Comparison
EV Wins
- fuel Savings5yr
- $12,450 fuel savings (5yr)
- maint Savings5yr
- $4,000 maintenance savings
- breakeven Years
- 3.6 year breakeven
- i Z E V Rebate
- $5,000 federal iZEV rebate
Formula and method
Gas fuel cost = km × (L/100km) × price/L ; EV cost = km × 0.20 kWh/km × rate
EV efficiency assumed at 20 kWh/100km (average mid-size EV). Gas maintenance $1,200/year vs EV $400/year (no oil changes, fewer brake jobs due to regen). Federal iZEV rebate: $5,000 for EVs ≤$55,000 MSRP; $2,500 for $55,001-$60,000.
Worked examples
Tesla Model 3 vs Honda Accord
- EV Purchase Price ($):
- 52000
- Gas Vehicle Price ($):
- 33000
- Annual Km Driven:
- 20000
- Gas Price ($/L):
- 1.65
- Electricity Rate (¢/kWh):
- 12
- Gas Vehicle Fuel Use (L/100km):
- 8
Total Cost Comparison: EV Wins
High-mileage driver: 35,000 km/year
- EV Purchase Price ($):
- 55000
- Gas Vehicle Price ($):
- 35000
- Annual Km Driven:
- 35000
- Gas Price ($/L):
- 1.7
- Electricity Rate (¢/kWh):
- 10
- Gas Vehicle Fuel Use (L/100km):
- 9
Total Cost Comparison: EV Wins
Assumptions and limits
- EV efficiency: 20 kWh/100km
- Home charging assumed (not public fast charging)
- No carbon tax differential in fuel price
This tool provides an educational estimate. Rules, rates and personal circumstances can change the answer. Review the assumptions before relying on a result. Report a correction.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Ignoring home charging installation costs — a Level 2 charger installation is $600-$1,500, a one-time cost.
- Not accounting for the iZEV federal rebate and provincial rebates (up to $5,000+ additional in some provinces).
- Using pump price for gas comparison without noting gas price volatility — electric rates are much more stable.
Frequently asked questions
Is the federal iZEV rebate still available?
As of 2024, the federal iZEV rebate provides up to $5,000 for EVs priced at $55,000 or less (base MSRP) and $2,500 for $55,001-$60,000. Some provinces add additional rebates. Check Transport Canada's iZEV page for current eligibility.
What does EV maintenance actually cost vs gas?
EVs eliminate: oil changes ($150-300/yr), transmission service, spark plug replacement, and have reduced brake wear (regenerative braking). Average EV maintenance: $300-500/year. Average gas vehicle: $1,000-1,500/year. Over 5 years, EVs save roughly $4,000-6,000 in maintenance.
How much does it cost to charge an EV at home per km?
At 12¢/kWh and 20 kWh/100km: $0.024/km or 2.4¢/km. Equivalent to a 45 MPG gas car at $1.65/L gas. Most Canadian EV drivers pay $1.20-$2.50 to drive 100 km at home rates.
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