How Much Does It Actually Cost to Charge an EV?
"EVs are cheaper to fuel!" True, but by how much? Let's do the math.
The Basic Formula
Cost to charge = (Battery size in kWh) × (Electricity rate per kWh). Example: 75 kWh battery × $0.13/kWh = $9.75 for a full charge.
How Far Does That Get You?
If your EV gets 3 miles per kWh (average), 75 kWh = 225 miles. Cost per mile = $9.75 ÷ 225 = $0.043/mile. Compare to gas: 30 MPG at $3.50/gal = $0.117/mile. EV wins.
Electricity Rates Vary by State
Hawaii: $0.33/kWh (expensive)
Louisiana: $0.09/kWh (cheap)
California: $0.22/kWh (high)
Check your utility bill for exact rates.
Fast Charging Costs More
Home charging (Level 2): Your utility rate.
Public DC fast charging: $0.30-0.50/kWh. Still cheaper than gas, but not by as much.
Use ChargeCost411
Plug in your state and EV model. We'll calculate exact costs vs gas savings.