Electric Cars vs. Gas Cars: Which One Really Costs Less?

Have you ever wondered if those super cool electric cars you see on the road are actually cheaper than the regular gas-powered ones? It’s not a simple yes or no answer! Deciding between an electric vehicle (EV) and a traditional gasoline car involves a lot more than just looking at the price tag. It’s about understanding the total cost of ownership, which includes everything from the initial purchase price to the cost of fuel, maintenance, and more.

This article will dive deep into comparing the costs of owning an EV and a gasoline car. We’ll go beyond the initial price and examine all the costs that add up over the years, so you can understand which type of vehicle might be the best choice for your needs and budget.

So, let’s explore the main question: “How does the total cost of ownership for electric cars compare to traditional gasoline vehicles?” We’ll also touch on the environmental impact and other key factors to help you decide which car is right for you. By the end of this article, you’ll have a much clearer understanding of the true costs associated with both types of vehicles, and you will be able to make a decision that is right for you.

Considering an electric vehicle (EV) but not sure if it’s the right choice? I understand it’s a big decision, so let’s quickly break down the key advantages of EVs and why they might be a better choice than a traditional gas car.

• Lower Running Costs: EVs typically have lower fuel costs because electricity is cheaper than gasoline. You could save around $700 per year on fuel costs. One source suggests that you could pay around half as much per mile to drive an EV as you do a gas car. Also, with reduced maintenance on EVs, you may save on oil changes, transmission service, and other maintenance that gas cars require. EVs have fewer moving parts, which leads to less frequent and less expensive maintenance. For instance, electric vehicles do not require oil changes, and their brakes last longer due to regenerative braking.
• Environmental Benefits: EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions and have a smaller carbon footprint than gas cars. By not burning gasoline, electric vehicles help reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. While the production of batteries does create some emissions, over the lifetime of the vehicle, electric vehicles are better for the environment.
• Performance: EVs provide instant torque, which means they can accelerate quickly. They also tend to be smoother and quieter to drive than gasoline-powered vehicles.
• Government Incentives: You may qualify for federal and state tax credits, rebates, and other incentives to reduce the purchase price of an electric vehicle. For example, there is a $7,500 federal tax credit available for some new EV purchases. However, the eligibility for these credits can be complex, depending on income, the vehicle’s price, and where the vehicle and its battery components were manufactured.

Cost of Ownership

• Purchase Price: EVs often have a higher initial purchase price than comparable gasoline cars. For example, a Hyundai Kona Electric costs about $13,000 more than a gasoline-powered Kona. A Ford F-150 Lightning is also more expensive than a regular F-150. However, tax credits and incentives can significantly reduce the initial cost.
• Fuel Costs: The cost to charge an EV is generally much lower than the cost of gasoline. The cost per mile for an EV can be half that of a gasoline car. For example, one source estimates that an EV costs around $0.70 per kilometer, while a gasoline car costs about $7.00 per kilometer.
• Maintenance Costs: EVs have fewer moving parts than gasoline cars, resulting in lower maintenance costs. EVs do not require oil changes, and their brakes tend to last longer due to regenerative braking. One analysis concluded that the total cost of EV maintenance is about 6 cents per mile, while the total cost for gas car maintenance is about 10 cents per mile.
• Depreciation: EVs can depreciate faster than gasoline cars due to their higher initial cost. However, as the market for EVs grows, their resale value is becoming more stable.

Types of Electric Vehicles

• Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs): These are fully electric vehicles that use a battery as their only power source. They have no combustion engine and produce zero emissions. BEVs typically have a range of 80 to 350 miles per charge.
• Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs): These vehicles combine a battery with an internal combustion engine. They can be charged from an electrical outlet, and they run on battery power first, then switch to the combustion engine. PHEVs usually have an electric range of 10 to 40 miles.
• Extended Range Electric Vehicles (REEVs): These are electric vehicles with a small combustion engine or fuel cell to generate additional power. REEVs usually have a modest electric range, which can be extended by the use of the secondary power source.

Other Considerations

• Charging: electric vehicles can be charged at home using a standard 120-volt outlet or a faster 240-volt charging system. Public charging stations are also becoming more widely available. However, charging times are longer than refueling a gasoline car.
• Range: The range of electric vehicles varies widely, with most new models exceeding 100 miles on a single charge, and many capable of over 200 miles.. However, extreme hot or cold weather can affect range.
• Battery Life: EV batteries are designed for extended life, and many manufacturers offer 8-year/100,000-mile warranties. Current batteries are expected to last 12 to 15 years in moderate climates. While battery replacement can be a significant expense, battery prices are expected to continue to decline.
• Environmental Impact: Although electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, the environmental impact of their production and electricity generation should be considered. The emissions associated with manufacturing an EV are mostly tied to battery production. The source of electricity also matters. If electricity is produced from renewable sources, the overall environmental impact is reduced.
• Infrastructure: Charging infrastructure is improving, but it is still not as ubiquitous as gas stations. Many people meet their daily driving needs by charging at home.

Making the Decision

Deciding between an EV and a gasoline car depends on your needs, location, and driving habits.

• If you primarily drive in a city, an electric vehicle can be practical, especially if you can charge at home.
• If you need a versatile vehicle for long trips, a gasoline car or a hybrid might be more suitable due to the current limitations in charging infrastructure.
• If you’re concerned about the environment, electric vehicles offer a cleaner alternative to gasoline cars.

Keep reading to get all the details you need to make the best choice for your needs and driving habits.

Understanding the Basics

Before we jump into the costs, it’s important to understand how these different types of vehicles work.

• Internal Combustion Engines (ICE): Traditional gasoline cars use what we call internal combustion engines. These engines burn gasoline to create power. The fuel is ignited inside the engine’s cylinders, which pushes pistons, which in turn makes the wheels turn. It’s a complex system with a lot of moving parts.
• Electric Motors: Electric vehicles, on the other hand, use electric motors. These motors are powered by electricity stored in a battery. When you turn on an EV and press the accelerator, the battery sends electrical energy to the motor, which spins and turns the wheels. It’s a much simpler system with far fewer moving parts.
• Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles: There are also vehicles that are a middle ground between gas and electric, known as hybrids and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). Hybrids use both a gasoline engine and an electric motor, working together to power the car, using regenerative braking to recharge the battery. PHEVs are similar, but they have a larger battery that can be plugged into an external power source to recharge, allowing you to drive for a limited distance on pure electric power before the gasoline engine kicks in.
• Main Types of EVs:
  • Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs): These are fully electric vehicles that run only on electricity from a battery.
  • Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs): These combine a gasoline engine with a battery and can be plugged in to recharge.
  • Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs): These use a gasoline engine and a battery but cannot be plugged in.

Initial Purchase Price: The Sticker Shock

When you first look at the price of an EV, you might experience some sticker shock. That’s because the upfront cost of an electric vehicle is often higher than a comparable gasoline car. For example, let’s look at the Hyundai Kona and the Hyundai Kona Electric. The electric version typically costs thousands of dollars more upfront. The same is true for the Ford F-150 and the Ford F-150 Lightning, with the electric version costing more initially.

However, this higher initial cost doesn’t tell the whole story. There are federal tax credits, and other state and local incentives that can help lower the purchase price of an EV. For example, in the United States, there is a federal tax credit of up to $7,500 for eligible new EVs. Keep in mind that these tax credits often come with specific requirements, such as the car needing to be assembled in the U.S. and the buyer’s income needs to be below a certain threshold.

The Inflation Reduction Act created new rules for EVs purchased after August 16, 2022. To qualify for the full credit, the vehicle needs to be assembled in the U.S. and a certain percentage of battery materials must be sourced from the U.S. or countries with which the U.S. has free trade agreements. Also, the buyer’s income cannot exceed $150,000, or $300,000 if filing jointly, and the price of the EV cannot exceed $55,000 for cars, or $80,000 for SUVs and trucks.

It’s also important to note that the price difference between gas cars and EVs is expected to equalize over time, as battery technology improves and production costs come down.

Fueling Up: Electricity vs. Gasoline

One of the biggest differences between EVs and gas cars is how they get their “fuel”. EVs run on electricity, while gas cars run on gasoline. This difference significantly impacts the cost of “fueling up.”

• Electricity Costs: EVs use electricity measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). You can calculate the miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) for EVs to compare their energy consumption to gasoline vehicles. For example, if an EV has a 100 kWh battery, a full charge might cost about $17 dollars, depending on local rates.
• Gasoline Costs: Gasoline is measured in gallons, and the price per gallon fluctuates a lot. In 2022, the average cost of gas was around $4.9 per gallon, which can make filling up a gas tank fairly costly.

Electricity is generally much cheaper than gasoline. The cost of electricity can vary depending on where you live. For example, areas that use low-polluting energy sources for electricity production will have lower costs compared to areas that rely heavily on coal. The cost of electricity is also affected by the time of day you charge your EV, especially if you have a time-of-use plan with your utility. Charging at home, especially overnight during off-peak hours, can further reduce costs, because electricity is usually cheaper during those times.

Let’s compare a gasoline car to a hybrid to show how these costs differ. A 2023 Toyota Corolla, for example, might cost more to fuel than a 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid. Hybrids use both gas and electricity and they get better gas mileage than gas cars, so they will be cheaper to fuel than traditional gasoline cars.

To give you a clearer idea of actual costs, here are some comparisons:

• Gasoline Car: A typical gasoline car might cost about 17 cents per mile, which means that an average driver might spend around $2,425 per year on gasoline.
• Electric Car: An electric car might cost around 7 cents per mile for electricity, which comes out to about $998 per year for an average driver.
• Hybrid Car: A hybrid car may have a combined fuel economy that costs about 8 cents per mile, and an average driver might spend around $1,137 per year on gas.

These comparisons show that EVs are generally much cheaper to fuel than gas cars, and hybrids are also cheaper than gas cars.

Maintenance: What Does it Cost to Keep Them Running?

Another key area where EVs shine is in maintenance costs. Electric vehicles generally have much lower maintenance costs than gas cars. This is mainly because they have fewer moving parts. For example, EVs don’t have an internal combustion engine, so they don’t need things like oil changes, spark plugs, or exhaust systems. They don’t need engine air filters or fuel filters. This translates to less frequent trips to the mechanic, and more money in your pocket.

• Regenerative Braking: EVs also use something called regenerative braking. This means that when you slow down, the motor acts as a generator to recharge the battery. This helps to reduce wear and tear on the brakes and extends the life of the brake pads.
• Common Maintenance Items: Both EVs and gas cars still need some basic maintenance like tire rotations, replacement of wiper blades and cabin air filters, and keeping fluids topped off.
• Battery Replacement: One thing to keep in mind is that electric vehicle batteries will eventually need replacement. This can be expensive, but battery technology is improving rapidly, and costs are expected to decrease. Plus, most manufacturers offer warranties on their batteries, which usually last for 8-10 years. The warranty generally covers the battery in the event of a failure.

The Hidden Cost: Depreciation

Depreciation refers to how much a car loses value over time. It’s often called a “hidden” cost because most people don’t think of it as they drive, however it is a significant factor in the overall cost of ownership.

EVs often depreciate faster than gasoline cars, especially in the first few years. This is partly because of their higher initial cost and evolving technology. As technology improves, newer EVs may be more desirable than older ones, leading to faster depreciation for older models. However, the resale value of EVs is becoming more stable as the market grows and more people are willing to purchase them.

Insurance and Other Fees

• Insurance Costs: Insurance costs can also affect the total cost of ownership. Generally, insurance can be higher for EVs because they may cost more to repair. However, some insurers offer discounts for EVs because they are considered safer.
• Other Fees: Other costs to consider include annual registration fees and any other taxes or fees that your city or state might charge. These may vary by location.

Putting it All Together: Total Cost of Ownership

The total cost of ownership (TCO) includes all the expenses associated with owning a car. It’s the big picture, and it helps you see which type of car is truly more affordable over the long run. TCO includes the initial purchase price, fuel costs, maintenance costs, insurance, depreciation, and any other relevant fees.

To really understand how the TCO differs between gas and electric vehicles, let’s look at some examples. A study comparing the Hyundai Kona and Ford F-150 gas and electric versions found that:

• After three years, the total cost of ownership of the gas Hyundai Kona was around $19,385, while the Hyundai Kona Electric was slightly more expensive at $21,426. However, if you factor in a $7,500 tax credit the cost of the Kona EV would be $13,926.
• The gas Ford F-150 had a TCO of around $26,505 over three years, while the Ford F-150 Lightning was lower at $23,840. With the tax credit, the electric F-150 drops to $16,340.

These examples demonstrate that EVs can be cheaper to own over the long term, particularly if tax credits are applied. However, there are many factors that can vary based on location, driving habits, and other issues.

• Location Matters: The study by the University of Michigan found that the total cost of ownership for an electric midsize SUV varied by $52,000 across 14 U.S. cities. Cities with higher insurance costs like New York City and Detroit will make ownership of any car more expensive. For gasoline vehicles, refueling is most expensive in San Francisco and Los Angeles and least expensive in Houston and Dallas. For EVs, charging is most expensive in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Boston, and least expensive in Atlanta, Chicago, and Cleveland.
• Charging Habits: The study also found that home charging is significantly cheaper, lowering costs by $10,000 on average, and up to $26,000 over the life of the vehicle, compared to using public charging.
• Vehicle Size and Range: Small and low-range EVs are generally less expensive than similar gas cars in most cities studied. Larger, long-range EVs can be more expensive than similar gas cars.

Environmental Impact: Is it Greener?

One of the main reasons people consider EVs is their environmental impact. Electric vehicles have zero tailpipe emissions, which means they don’t release harmful pollutants into the air as you drive. This is great for air quality in cities and towns. However, the overall environmental impact of an EV depends on how the electricity that powers it is made.

• Life Cycle Emissions: The life cycle emissions of an EV include all the emissions related to making the car, making the battery, generating electricity, and even disposing of the vehicle at the end of its life. If the electricity is generated by burning coal or natural gas, there will be carbon pollution associated with the EV. However, if the electricity comes from renewable energy sources like wind or solar power, then the EV’s overall emissions are significantly lower.
• EVs are more energy-efficient than gasoline cars. EVs use approximately 87%-91% of the energy from the battery to move the vehicle, while gasoline vehicles only convert about 16-25% of the energy from gasoline into movement.
• Battery Manufacturing: There’s a common myth that EVs are worse for the climate because of the emissions produced during battery manufacturing. While it’s true that making an EV battery requires energy, the total emissions over the lifetime of the EV, including manufacturing, charging, and driving, are typically lower than that of a gasoline car. Plus, there are continuous improvements being made in battery technology to reduce the environmental impact of manufacturing. Also, recycling EV batteries can further reduce the emissions associated with making a new EV.

Other Important Things to Consider

Beyond costs and environmental impact, there are a few more things to consider when choosing between an EV and a gas car:

• Range Anxiety: Some people worry about range anxiety, which is the fear of running out of battery power when driving an EV. However, most EVs today have sufficient range for daily travel needs. Most models have over 100 miles of range on a single charge, and many new models go over 200 miles. According to a 2022 survey, over 73% of all on-road passenger trips are 10 miles or less.
• Charging Infrastructure: There are a growing number of public charging stations across the country, but they are still not as widely available as gas stations. Many EV owners choose to charge their vehicles at home overnight, making it very convenient.
• Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G): Some EVs also offer vehicle-to-grid (V2G) charging. This means that an EV can act as a power source and send energy back to the grid, which can help with grid reliability.
• Battery Technology and Recycling: Battery technology continues to improve, making batteries more efficient, longer-lasting, and more affordable. There is also a lot of research going into battery recycling, which can reduce the need for new materials, and help reduce emissions.

Conclusion

So, let’s bring it all together. How does the total cost of ownership for electric cars really compare to traditional gasoline vehicles? The answer, as we’ve seen, isn’t a simple one.

While EVs often have a higher initial price, they can be cheaper to own in the long run due to lower fuel and maintenance costs. But this can vary quite a lot depending on several factors:

• Where you live
• How much you drive
• Whether you charge at home or in public
• The size and range of the EV
• The incentives and tax credits you qualify for

It’s important to do your own research, and look at the specific costs associated with the type of driving you do, and where you live. You can use online tools like the Vehicle Cost Calculator to compare the total cost of ownership for different EV and gas models. You can also check the EPA’s website for the Beyond Tailpipe Emissions Calculator to compare greenhouse gas emissions based on your location.

Ultimately, the “best” car for you depends on your individual needs, preferences, and financial situation. EVs are an excellent option for people who want to reduce their emissions and overall driving costs. Gas cars still have a place, especially for those who need long ranges and don’t have easy access to charging stations. And hybrid cars offer a nice middle ground, combining the benefits of both EV and gas options.

The future of EVs looks very promising, with continuing improvements in battery technology, lower costs, and a larger charging infrastructure, and they are poised to play an increasingly important role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. As you consider your next car, take the time to research all the options and choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.

FAQ:

Q: What are the main benefits of owning an EV compared to a gasoline car?

• • EVs have lower running costs due to cheaper electricity and reduced maintenance.
  • EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, contributing to cleaner air and reducing your carbon footprint.
  • EVs offer instant torque for quick acceleration and a quieter driving experience.
  • There may be government incentives such as tax credits and rebates available for purchasing an EV.

Q: Are EVs more expensive than gasoline cars?

• • The initial purchase price of an EV can be higher than a comparable gasoline car. However, this can be offset by lower fuel and maintenance costs, and tax incentives.
  • Over the long term, the total cost of ownership (TCO) for an EV can be lower than a gasoline car due to reduced running costs.

Q: How much can I save on fuel costs with an EV?

• • Electricity is typically cheaper than gasoline, resulting in significant fuel cost savings. Some sources suggest that EVs cost about half as much per mile to drive compared to gasoline cars.
  • The average EV can cost less than $1000 per year for charging, while gasoline vehicles may cost $2000 to $7000 per year for fuel.
  • Savings will vary depending on local electricity and gas prices, and your driving habits.

Q: What about maintenance costs for EVs?

• • EVs generally have lower maintenance costs than gasoline cars due to fewer moving parts. They don’t require oil changes, and their brakes tend to last longer due to regenerative braking.
  • EV maintenance costs can be around 6 cents per mile, compared to about 10 cents per mile for gas cars.

Q: What is regenerative braking, and how does it help EVs?

• • Regenerative braking is a system in EVs that captures the kinetic energy lost during braking and uses it to recharge the battery.
  • This not only boosts the EV’s range but also reduces wear and tear on the brake pads and other components, making them last longer than in gas cars.

Q: How long do EV batteries last, and what is the cost of replacement?

• • EV batteries are designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle and have very low failure rates. Most batteries are covered by a manufacturer’s warranty.
• Battery replacements due to failures are uncommon, with recent studies showing an average of 2.5% failure rate, mostly in older models. For EVs made from 2016 onward, the failure rate is less than 0.5%.
• While the cost of a replacement battery can be a significant expense, battery prices are expected to decline as technology improves and production volumes increase.

Q: What are the different types of electric vehicles?

• • Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) are fully electric, using only a battery for power. They produce zero tailpipe emissions and typically have a range of 80 to 350 miles.
  • Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) combine a battery with an internal combustion engine. They can be charged from an electrical outlet and run on battery power first, then switch to the combustion engine. PHEVs have an electric range of 10 to 40 miles.
  • Extended Range Electric Vehicles (REEVs) are all-electric vehicles with a small combustion engine to generate additional electric power.

Q: How do I charge an EV?

• • EVs can be charged at home using a standard 120-volt outlet (Level 1) or a faster 240-volt outlet (Level 2). You can also charge at public charging stations.
  • Charging at home is often more convenient and cost-effective.

Q: Is there sufficient charging infrastructure available?

• • Public charging stations are not as numerous as gas stations, but the network of public charging stations is rapidly expanding.
  • The U.S. had more than 53,000 public charging stations with over 137,000 charging ports in 2023. Government initiatives are supporting the expansion of charging infrastructure.
  • Many EV drivers find that they can meet their needs by charging primarily at home.

Q:  What is “range anxiety,” and how can I address it?

• • “Range anxiety” is the fear of running out of battery power before reaching a charging station.
  • EV range is more than enough for daily travel needs as the majority of trips are under 75 miles, and most new EVs have a range of over 200 miles on a full charge.
  • Planning your route and using available resources to find charging stations along your route can reduce range anxiety.

Q: Will the increasing number of EVs overload the power grid?

• • EV charging can be managed to prevent overloading the power grid. EVs can be charged at off-peak times, such as overnight, when rates are lower.
  • Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology can allow EVs to act as a power source, pushing energy back to the grid when demand is high.
  • EV charging currently makes up a small percentage of the power grid load, even in areas with high EV adoption.

Q: Are EVs really better for the environment?

• • EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, which helps to reduce air pollution in urban areas.
  • Over their lifespan, EVs typically have a lower overall carbon footprint than gasoline cars, especially when powered by renewable energy sources. The emissions associated with manufacturing an EV are mostly tied to battery production.

Q: Do EVs qualify for government incentives?

• • Many EVs qualify for federal and state tax credits, rebates, and other incentives.
  • The federal Clean Vehicle Tax Credit offers up to $7,500, but eligibility requirements include income caps, U.S. assembly, and battery material sourcing.

Q: What are the ethical concerns related to EV battery production?

• • The extraction of critical minerals like cobalt, lithium, and nickel for EV batteries can be linked to conflict, child labor, and environmental damage.
  • Regulations and guidelines are being put in place to address the responsible sourcing of these minerals.
  • Manufacturers are also exploring battery technologies that reduce reliance on these critical minerals, as well as improving battery recycling.

Q: What are the pros and cons of hybrid vehicles?

• • Hybrids combine a gasoline engine with an electric motor to achieve better fuel economy than traditional gasoline cars.
  • They offer better gas mileage and lower emissions.
  • Hybrids may still require more maintenance than an EV but less than a gas-powered vehicle.
  • Hybrids tend to have lower top speeds than gasoline cars.

Q: What are some common misconceptions about EVs?

• • Some common myths include that EVs are worse for the climate, that their batteries need frequent replacements, that they will collapse the power grid, that there is nowhere to charge them, and that they don’t have sufficient range. In reality, EVs typically have a lower lifetime carbon footprint than gasoline vehicles; EV battery replacements are uncommon; the grid can handle EV charging; charging options are widely available; and EV ranges are sufficient for most daily driving needs.

Q: Is it better to buy an EV or a fuel-efficient used car for sustainability?

• • The environmental impact of both options depends on multiple factors. EVs produce fewer emissions during operation.
  • The production of EVs requires a lot of energy and resources. Used cars have already paid the “carbon debt” of manufacturing.
  • The extraction of minerals for EV batteries can be linked to conflict.

Q: What factors should I consider when deciding between an EV and a gasoline car?

• • Consider your typical driving distance and whether charging at home is feasible.
  • Think about your budget, including the initial cost, potential tax credits, and long-term operating costs.
  • Consider the availability and convenience of charging options, including public stations.
  • If you regularly travel long distances, a hybrid or gasoline car might be more convenient.

5 Sources to organizations or topics that would be relevant to include in an article:

• Alternative Fuels Data Center (U.S. Department of Energy): This website offers a wide range of information on alternative fuels and vehicles, including electric vehicles. It provides details on the benefits and considerations of EVs, charging infrastructure, and relevant laws and incentives. You can use it as a resource for understanding the basics of EV technology, charging options, and the expanding charging station network. The site also offers case studies, publications, and tools related to electric vehicles.
• Electric Vehicle Myths (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency): This page directly addresses common myths about electric vehicles, providing facts and data to counter misconceptions. It’s a valuable resource for debunking false claims about EVs and understanding their environmental impact and reliability. The EPA site covers myths related to climate, batteries, the power grid, charging availability, range, and safety.
• Electric Vehicles: Total Cost of Ownership Tool (International Energy Agency): This interactive tool allows users to compare the costs of owning and operating fossil fuel and electric vehicles. It is a helpful resource for understanding how different variables affect the total cost of ownership. This site helps analyze the financial aspects of owning an EV.
• Electric vs. gasoline vehicles: Is EV ownership competitive in your area? (University of Michigan News): This article discusses a study that analyzes the total cost of ownership of EVs and gasoline vehicles across 14 U.S. cities. It emphasizes that location, charging behavior, and vehicle size all affect the cost of ownership. You can use it to highlight how cost competitiveness of EVs varies across different regions, and how incentives can affect the break-even point between EVs and gasoline vehicles.
• Driving Clean Assistance Program (CHDC): This website provides information about a California-based program that helps low-income individuals access clean air vehicles. It discusses the cost savings and maintenance benefits of owning an EV. This is a good resource for showing the potential for long-term savings with EVs and the incentives available, especially for low-income communities.