The Big Cost Question: Electricity vs. Fuel
Electric cars promise lower operating costs -- but is that really true? The answer depends heavily on where and how you charge. The range of electricity costs spans from EUR 0.30/kWh (home charging with a cheap tariff) to EUR 0.79/kWh (fast charger on the highway). This makes an enormous difference in per-kilometer costs.
Home Charging: The EV's Biggest Advantage
Those who charge at home at a wallbox benefit most. At an average household electricity price of EUR 0.35/kWh and a consumption of 18 kWh/100km, each kilometer costs only 6.3 cents. For comparison: a petrol car with 7.5 L/100km and EUR 1.75/L costs 13.1 cents/km -- more than double.
On an annual basis (15,000 km): EV home charging: EUR 945. Petrol car: EUR 1,969. Savings: EUR 1,024 per year.
Even Cheaper with Solar Panels
Those with their own photovoltaic system can partly charge their EV with solar power. Marginal costs are then 8-12 cents/kWh -- reducing per-kilometer costs to under 2 cents. In practice, about 30-50% of charging needs can be covered by your own PV system, the rest via the regular electricity tariff.
Public Charging: Prices and Pitfalls
At public charging stations, prices vary widely. AC stations (alternating current, 11-22 kW) typically cost EUR 0.45-0.55/kWh. DC fast chargers (50-350 kW) range from EUR 0.55-0.79/kWh. At highway rest stops (Ionity, EnBW), costs can reach EUR 0.79/kWh.
At 18 kWh/100km and EUR 0.65/kWh (typical fast charging price), each kilometer costs 11.7 cents -- almost as much as an economical petrol car. Those who frequently travel long distances and use fast chargers lose most of the cost advantage.
Compare Charging Cards and Tariffs
Choosing the right charging tariff can save hundreds of euros per year. Some providers charge monthly fees for lower kWh prices. ADAC members receive special rates. Tesla Superchargers are often cheaper than other fast chargers. Recommendation: use at least two charging cards for different networks.
Total Cost Comparison: EV vs. Combustion Engine
Pure energy costs are only part of the equation. Here is a realistic annual comparison at 15,000 km (compact class):
EV (60% Home Charging, 40% Public)
Electricity home: EUR 567 (9,000 km x 18 kWh/100km x EUR 0.35). Electricity public: EUR 702 (6,000 km x 18 kWh/100km x EUR 0.65). Vehicle tax: EUR 0 (exempt until 2030). Maintenance: EUR 300 (fewer wear parts). Insurance: EUR 500. Total: EUR 2,069/year.
Petrol Car
Fuel: EUR 1,969. Vehicle tax: EUR 108. Maintenance: EUR 500. Insurance: EUR 450. Total: EUR 3,027/year.
The EV saves EUR 958 per year in operating costs in this scenario. Over 5 years, that is nearly EUR 5,000 -- though the higher purchase price must be factored in.
Future Perspective
Electricity costs are more stable long-term than fossil fuel prices. The expansion of renewable energy pushes down exchange prices, while the CO2 price makes fossil fuels more expensive. Those who buy an EV today and can charge at home will drive significantly cheaper in the long run than with any combustion engine.