Electric vehicle vs Petrol vehicle: Which is Truly Cheaper in the Long Run?

The debate between electric vehicles (EVs) and petrol vehicles has intensified over the past few years, with governments, manufacturers, and environmentalists pushing for EV adoption. But beyond the hype, the real question remains—are electric vehicles truly cheaper than petrol vehicles in the short term and long term?

In this blog, we explore the comparison objectively, while also sharing two real-life experiences from opposite corners of India—Mumbai and Guwahati—that reflect the mixed opinions of everyday drivers.

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Short-Term Cost Comparison

• Electric Vehicles (EVs):
  EVs generally cost more upfront compared to petrol vehicles. The primary reasons are the high cost of battery packs and relatively lower mass production. However, government subsidies (like FAME II in India) can reduce the initial price gap to some extent.
• Petrol Vehicles:
  Petrol vehicles usually have a lower purchase cost, making them more accessible to a larger segment of the population.

Verdict: In the short term, petrol vehicles often win in terms of affordability due to the lower purchase price.

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Long-Term Cost Comparison

• Running Costs:
  EVs have significantly lower running costs since electricity is much cheaper than petrol on a per-kilometre basis. Maintenance costs are also lower because EVs have fewer moving parts.
• Battery Replacement:
  However, the biggest cost concern for EV owners is the battery replacement—often costing several lakhs of rupees. If the battery fails prematurely, it can wipe out years of fuel savings.
• Petrol Vehicles:
  Petrol cars require regular oil changes, engine maintenance, and are vulnerable to fluctuating fuel prices, which can heavily impact long-term expenses.

Verdict: EVs can be cheaper in the long run if the battery lasts its expected lifespan and charging infrastructure is accessible. But a battery failure can change the equation drastically.

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Real-Life Experiences from Across India

1. Mumbai Cab Driver’s View – Skeptical About EVs
While in Mumbai, I met a cab driver who had been offered the option to buy an electric car from a prominent EV manufacturer. He was skeptical about its cost-effectiveness. His main argument was:

“The battery is very costly. Once it goes bad, I’ll have to pay such a huge amount for replacement that all my savings from avoiding petrol will vanish in one shot.”
His cautious stance reflects a common fear among many potential EV buyers—uncertainty about long-term battery reliability and replacement costs.

2. Guwahati Cab Driver’s View – A Happy EV Owner
In contrast, during a trip to Guwahati, I rode in an electric cab owned by a driver who had purchased it just a few months ago. He was thrilled about his decision:

“No petrol expenses, very low maintenance, and the ride is so smooth.”
The car was quiet, comfortable, and clean—making my journey enjoyable. For him, the EV was a game-changer in terms of daily savings and operational ease.

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Environmental Impact

Apart from cost, EVs offer a clear advantage in reducing tailpipe emissions, which is critical for improving urban air quality. However, the environmental benefit also depends on how the electricity is generated—coal-based power reduces the overall advantage.

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Conclusion – No One-Size-Fits-All Answer

If you live in a city with good EV charging infrastructure, drive a lot daily, and your battery lasts long, an EV can be much cheaper and cleaner in the long run. But if you’re worried about battery costs, live in areas with fewer charging stations, or have limited upfront budget, petrol vehicles might still be the safer choice—for now.

The choice ultimately depends on your driving habits, access to charging points, and risk tolerance for battery-related expenses.