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Cost of ownership

Compare total cost over time between an EV and a gas vehicle — purchase price, fuel, and maintenance.

Electric vehicle

Purchase price Federal/state incentive Efficiency (mi/kWh) Electricity rate ($/kWh) Annual maintenance ($)

Gas vehicle (comparison)

Purchase price MPG Gas price ($/gal) Annual maintenance ($)

Annual miles driven Years to compare

EV total (5 yr)

$42,700

$37,500 net + $5,200 running

Gas total (5 yr)

$54,500

$42,000 purchase + $12,500 running

EV saves

$11,800

$2,360/yr over 5 years

At these rates, the EV breaks even with the gas vehicle in year 1.

This calculator does not account for financing costs, insurance differences, depreciation, or resale value. Incentive eligibility varies by income, vehicle, and tax year — consult a tax advisor.