How To Use The IC Vs Electric Cost Calculator?
Using an IC (Internal Combustion) vs. Electric Cost Calculator involves inputting energy rates, vehicle efficiency, and usage patterns to compare fuel and electricity expenses. First, enter your local electricity cost ($/kWh), gasoline price ($/gallon), and annual mileage. The calculator then computes annual operating costs for both vehicle types, factoring in efficiency (e.g., MPG for ICE, Wh/mile for EVs) and maintenance estimates. Pro Tip: Always update regional utility rates for accuracy.
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What data do I need to input?
Essential inputs include electricity rates, gas prices, vehicle efficiency metrics, and annual mileage. Specifics like charging efficiency (e.g., 85% for Level 2 chargers) and maintenance cost differentials (EVs save ~$0.03/mile) further refine results. Always cross-reference your vehicle’s manual for exact Wh/mile or MPG figures.
Start with your local electricity rate—this varies from $0.10/kWh (Idaho) to $0.33/kWh (California). Gas prices fluctuate seasonally, so use a 12-month average. For EVs, input efficiency as Wh/mile: a 4-mile/kWh Tesla Model 3 translates to 250 Wh/mile. Don’t forget maintenance: ICE vehicles average $0.10/mile for oil changes and brakes, while EVs drop to $0.07/mile. Pro Tip: Check your utility bill’s “supply charge” for precise kWh rates. Imagine calculating grocery costs but for energy—knowing exact prices prevents oversights.
| Input Parameter | ICE Example | EV Example |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Price | $3.50/gallon | $0.15/kWh |
| Efficiency | 25 MPG | 4 mi/kWh |
| Annual Miles | 12,000 | 12,000 |
How to interpret fuel vs. electricity cost results?
The calculator outputs annual cost comparisons, break-even timelines, and CO2 emissions. Key metrics include cost per mile (e.g., ICE: $0.14 vs. EV: $0.04) and 5-year savings. Graphs often visualize how charging habits or gas price spikes tilt the balance.
Results show immediate per-mile savings with EVs—if gas is $3.50/gallon and electricity is $0.15/kWh, a 30 MPG ICE car costs $0.117/mile, while a 4-mi/kWh EV costs $0.0375/mile. Over 12,000 miles, that’s $1,404 vs. $450 annually. But don’t stop there: factor in maintenance gaps. For instance, regenerative braking in EVs cuts pad replacement costs by 50%. Pro Tip: Use the 5-year projection to weigh EV premiums against fuel savings. If your EV costs $8,000 more upfront but saves $1,200/year, break-even occurs in 6.7 years.
Why include maintenance costs?
Maintenance differentials significantly impact total ownership costs. ICE vehicles require frequent oil changes ($50–$100/year), transmission services ($200 every 60k miles), and exhaust repairs—expenses EVs bypass. Including these reveals the true long-term savings of electric drivetrains.
An average ICE sedan needs 12 oil changes ($600) and two brake jobs ($800) over 100,000 miles. EVs eliminate oil changes and use regenerative braking, slashing brake wear by 70%. However, EV battery degradation (2–3% annually) might offset gains after 8–10 years. Pro Tip: Account for tire rotations—EVs wear tires 20% faster due to instant torque. Think of maintenance like a subscription fee: ICE has monthly charges; EVs have occasional updates.
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FAQs
Yes—some states add EV registration surcharges ($100–$200/year) or gas taxes. Check your DMV’s fee calculator for exact numbers.
How accurate are default efficiency values?
Defaults are averages—replace them with your vehicle’s real-world data. For example, towing reduces EV range by 30–50%.
Can I compare hybrids?
Yes—input hybrid MPGe and select “Hybrid” as the powertrain. The calculator will split fuel/electricity costs proportionally.