First, compare the cost of every kilometre.
For most EV owners who can charge at home, electricity can cost substantially less per kilometre than petrol or diesel. But the right purchase decision depends on total ownership costs, not just what happens at the plug or pump.
These are adjustable example assumptions, not current nationwide fuel or electricity prices. Your tariff, vehicle, route and charging mix can give very different results.
Free EV vs petrol calculator
Change the monthly distance and prices to see what the operating-cost difference could look like for you.
The six costs I would check before buying
Compare the actual deal, not just list prices. Include the value of your trade-in and any extra upfront cash.
Interest, loan term, insurance premiums and excesses can change the answer substantially.
Home, workplace, solar and public DC charging can have very different costs per kWh.
EVs often avoid oil changes and some engine-related work, but they still need tyres, suspension, brakes and repairs.
Consider the used market, likely ownership period, battery condition and warranty transfer rules.
A cheaper-to-run EV is not good value if its range, payload, towing or charging setup doesn't suit you.
What do those savings look like over a year?
With the example rates above, driving 20,000 km in a year gives petrol energy costs of about R38,400 and home EV charging costs of about R12,000—an energy-only difference of R26,400. At 10,000 km a year, that illustrative difference halves.
That does not automatically justify paying R150,000 more for a new EV. I would calculate the likely break-even period and then consider whether the non-financial benefits also matter to you.
Sometimes the answer is to buy an EV. Sometimes it is to keep your current car or choose a hybrid. My job is to explain which option is most sensible for your circumstances.
When does a personalised assessment make sense?
If you're considering changing vehicles in the next year, have high monthly mileage, own solar or are comparing a fleet, a proper vehicle-level assessment is usually much more useful than generic averages.
My Personal Vehicle Cost Assessment (R1,950) looks beyond energy savings to practical ownership costs and your specific alternatives.
Further reading & useful resources
These are independent resources for background and verification. Charging availability, prices and product specifications can change.