Investing in electric car is exactly that – an investment – and smart one too. While you can expect to pay higher upfront costs for your EV, across its lifetime you will make tangible electric car savings in the long-term.

From lower fuel-charging costs to needing fewer maintenance repairs, the cost savings of electric vehicles are many. Here, we explore how much you can expect to save with an EV, and in what areas.

Fuel vs charging: the cost per km comparison

Australia’s Electric Vehicle Council states that powering an EV is around 70% cheaper compared to their internal combustion engine counterparts. The motoring body estimates this saves electric car drivers $1600 in fuel costs each year on average.

In 2021 the EVC declared that the average cost of fuel for petrol-powered vehicles is $1.50 per litre, compared to electric cars, which cost the equivalent of 0.33c per litre. In many areas of Australia, however, the price has now risen even further up to $2 a litre, making EVs an even more attractively affordable driving option.

Maintenance, servicing and repairs

In terms of general upkeep, you can expect expenses of electric cars to be lower. With fewer moving parts under the bonnet, EVs do not develop as many maintenance issues as internal combustion engine vehicles. Indeed, Consumer Reports estimates EV owners save around 50% more than fuel-powered car owners in maintenance costs.

What’s more, EVs do not require costly services like oil changes and have helpful features like regenerative braking that prolong brake life, making you more savings over time.

EV governmental incentives

Residents of the ACT buying an electric car can save money on vehicle registration and stamp duty thanks to local governmental incentives.

A new motor vehicle costing $80,000 would owe $2,400 in stamp duty.

New EVs purchased are fully exempt from stamp duty and receive two years free registration. This is a significant saving!

If the initial high cost of an EV is swaying your decision to buy one, you’ll be pleased to know the ACT government offers zero-interest loans of between $2,000 to $15,000. As part of the region’s Sustainable Household Scheme, these loans towards the purchase of an EV make zero-tailpipe driving more assessable to all.

Summary

  • Savings on electric cars include fuel, maintenance and repair costs.
  • Powering an EV is around 70% cheaper compared to regular cars.
  • EV owners save around 50% more than fuel-powered car owners in maintenance costs.
  • Brand new EV buyers can expect to save on stamp duty and registration fees.
  • Eligible ACT residents may be able to access a zero-interest loan of between $2,000 to $15,000 to put towards the purchase of a new EV.

Are you considering making the switch to an electric vehicle? ActewAGL can help you effortlessly find, finance and charge your EV. Discover how ActewAGL can support your transition to sustainable driving today.

Sources

https://advocacy.consumerreports.org/press_release/electric-vehicle-owners-spending-half-as-much-on-maintenance-compared-to-gas-powered-vehicle-owners-finds-new-cr-analysis/

https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/s/article/motor-vehicle-registration-and-renewal-tab-zero-emissions-vehicle-registration