EV vs Petrol Car Running Cost in India: Simple Example

Petrol prices in India went up several times after mid-May 2026. Because of this, many people are now asking one question: is it cheaper to run an electric car? Let us see a simple example.

Cost per kilometre: a simple example

These numbers are only an example. Your petrol price, electricity rate and car will be different.

• Petrol car: petrol at ₹100 a litre and a mileage of 15 km per litre. Cost = about ₹6.70 per km.
• Electric car: home electricity at ₹8 a unit and a drive of 6 km per unit. Cost = about ₹1.30 per km.

What does this mean for one month?

Say you drive 1,000 km in a month.

• Petrol car: about ₹6,700
• Electric car: about ₹1,300

In this example you save about ₹5,400 every month. That is more than ₹60,000 in one year.

Things that can change the cost

• Where you charge: Charging at home is cheapest. Public fast chargers cost more per unit.
• How you drive: High speed uses more battery.
• Car price: Electric cars often cost more to buy. Count this too.
• Battery warranty: Ask how many years or kilometres it covers.

Tips to save more

• Charge at night at home if your electricity plan is cheaper at night.
• Keep your tyre pressure right.
• Drive at a steady speed on the highway.

Want to see which electric cars have the best range? Check our list of electric cars by range.

Note: This is a simple example and not financial advice. Check your own petrol price and electricity bill before you decide.