I Travel 100 Km Every Day - Should I Buy An EV Or Petrol Car?

If you have a daily commute of over 50 kilometres and are looking to invest in a new car, then you might be wondering wether en electric vehicle would be more suitable when compared to a petrol-powered car. The dilemma stems from the fact that the running cost of an EV is significantly lower than an ICE vehicle. Making the right choice becomes even more imperative as it dictates the amount of savings a user can make in the long run.

One of the most compelling reasons to consider an EV is the potential for lower running costs for those who travel more than 50 kms in a day. When charged at home, an EV generically has a per-kilometre running cost of just Rs 1 to Rs 1.5. In comparison, the running cost for even an economy hatchback averages at approximately

Rs 6-7 per kilometre. While the running cost difference might be offset by avoiding an EV's high upfront cost by those who travel less than 50 kms in a day, for those who have a higher requirement, an EV will translate into more money saved daily.

The other factor to consider is access to reliable EV charging points. This is crucial for commuters who travel long distances daily. With the increasing number of public fast-chargers in urban cities, car buyers are more likely to put their faith in an EV. However, one has to consider that it is advisable to charge your EV at home, rather than relying on public fast chargers regularly. This has nothing to do with the effect of fast-charging an EV, it is important because regular fast-charging can dilute your cost savings. Third-party public fast-chargers usually cost a lot more than home charging and lead to higher running costs.

Also Read: Should I Charge My Electric Car Every Night?

Ultimately, the choice between an EV and a petrol car for those travelling 100 km on average every day depends on individual circumstances, including purchasing budget, access to charging facilities and maintenance considerations. However, the running cost math dictates that an electric vehicle makes more sense for those who face long daily commutes, as it will lead to less money spent on travel alone.