Petrol vs EV Running Costs - New Zealand
Compare running costs of an EV vs an internal combustion engine vehicle in New Zealand.
Use the EV running cost calculator to compare costs between a petrol, diesel, or hybrid vehicle, and an EV in New Zealand.
Select a common rate or enter your own
What will make an EV cheaper to run?
- Charge at home as much as possible. Some power providers have half-price overnight rates.
- Shop around for the best power company for you.
- Charge from solar.
What's day, night, and solar rates?
Time-of-use rates (offered by many power companies) are useful for EV owners (overnight charging).
Why is solar 6 cents? This includes an averaged installation cost measured over the lifetime of the panels.
What is universal RUC?
Universal RUC is a proposed change to New Zealand's Road User Charges (RUC) system.
All vehicle types (EV, Petrol, Diesel, etc) would be subject to RUC, and excise levy would be removed from petrol costs.
Is there much variation in efficiency between different EV models?
Yes, there can be significant differences in efficiency between different EV models. A large SUV could use up to 50% more recharged electricity than a smaller EV (sedan / hatchback).
Why is there no depreciation and insurance?
This calculator focuses on day-to-day running costs. Depreciation and insurance are highly changeable and are not necessarily correlated with a vehicles level of electrification.
- Vehicle depreciation can be brand and model-specific and varies greatly depending on market conditions.
- Insurance premiums are based on the driver risk, location, sum insured, vehicle performance and risk, and materials used.
End Notes
- Typical (average) EV cost estimate is based on the averaged WLTP consumption values of the five most popular EVs sold locally. Otherwise WLTP consumption rating for each specific model is used.
- The WLTP measures recharged electric energy from the mains and applies that to the vehicle's range (Wh/km).
