Raj Pandey
With electric vehicles (EVs) gaining widespread adoption, more and more people are asking, “Which one is better, Electric car vs Petrol car?” There are a lot of factors to consider while making a purchase decision for a car, be it an electric or a petrol car. Each type of vehicle has its distinct pros and cons. This article will help you decide on the best option for you by comparing EV vs petrol car cost, pros, and cons.
1. Types of Cars: Electric Vs Petrol
Let us first explain how each of the type functions before we make comparisons.
Electric Cars (EVs)
Operate on electricity stored in a battery.
Charged at a charging station or a home charger.
Do not produce waste fuel or exhaust emissions.
Petrol Cars
Operate using petrol (gasoline) which is burned in an engine.
Fueled at petrol stations.
Releases carbon emissions.
Both serve the same purpose of transportation but they function in a different manner.
2. EV vs Petrol Car Cost Comparison
One of the major decision factors in choosing a car is its cost. Here is a breakdown of expenses.
Buying Cost
Electric Cars: Considerably expensive due to battery tech.
Petrol Cars: Acquiring these vehicles is relatively cheaper.
Running Cost
EVs: Refueling a petrol vehicle is more expensive than charging an EV.
Petrol Cars: Running costs increase as fuel costs escalate.
Maintenance Cost
EVs: These vehicles have fewer parts, therefore require less maintenance.
Petrol Cars: Regular servicing involves oil changes, engine mounting, and repairs.
Government Incentives
- The total costs of electric cars is lower in many countries due to tax relief and subsidies available to consumers.
Conclusions: EVs are cheaper to operate and maintain, while petrol cars are less expensive to purchase.
3. EV vs Petrol Car Pros and Cons
Both types of vehicles are beneficial in different aspects. Let’s compare.
| Feature | Electric Car (EV) | Petrol Car |
|---|---|---|
Environment |
Zero emissions, eco-friendly |
Produces CO₂, pollutes air |
Fuel Cost |
Cheaper, electricity is more affordable |
Expensive, petrol prices are high |
Maintenance |
Less maintenance, no engine oil |
Needs regular servicing |
Performance |
Instant torque, smooth drive |
Noisy engine, requires gear shifts |
Range |
Limited, needs frequent charging |
Long range, quick refueling |
Charging/Fueling Time |
Takes hours to charge |
Takes minutes to refuel |
Availability |
Fewer charging stations |
Many petrol stations everywhere |
Resale Value |
Still developing, uncertain |
Established market, better resale value |
💡 Winner: Long-term savings goes to EVs, but petrol cars are more convenient.
4. Which Car Is Better for the Environment?
If the environment is your concern, EVs are the clear winner.
Electric cars do not produce carbon emissions, reducing air pollution.
Petrol cars release harmful gasses which contribute to global warming.
One may also argue that EVs impact the environment due to electricity production (depending on the country) relying on coal or gas. But overall, these vehicles are cleaner than petrol cars.
5. Performance and Driving Experience
Electric Cars (EVs)
Instant torque means they accelerate quickly.
Quiet smooth ride.
Shifting isn’t required, making driving easier.
Petrol Cars
More familiar driving experience.
Long highway drives tend to be served with more powerful engines.
Takes no time to refill tank.
Winner: EVs for city driving; petrol cars for long-distance travel.
Also Read = Tata Motors’ EV Boom in India: How Tata Electric Cars Are Changing the Game
6. Charging vs Refueling: Which is More Convenient?
Charging An EV
🔋 Battery can be charged at home within 6 to 8 hours.
⚡ Fast chargers can charge devices quickly. They can achieve 80% backpack power in 30 minutes, but are not readily available.
Refueling a Petrol Car
⛽ Easily done in 2 to 3 minutes at any petrol station.
🚗 Are petrol stations available everywhere? Yes.
💡 Verdict: For long drives, petrol cars are the more convenient option.
7. Resale Value: EV Vs Petrol Car
Petrol cars have a stable resale market since they’ve been around for decades.
Electric cars: Uncertain estimate for resale price because battery life affects worth.
EVs may offer better resale value in the future as battery technology improves.
💡 Winner: Petrol cars (for the time being).
8. Future Of Cars: Are Petrol Cars Dying?
A lot of countries are now moving towards electric vehicles by offering incentives and banning petrol cars in the future.
🚗 Big car companies like Tesla, BMW, and Toyota are investing in EVs.
🔋 Improving battery tech makes EVs more practical.
🌍 Governments are heavily promoting clean energy while reducing the usage of petrol cars.
💡 The final say: We are looking at a future with EVs, but there will still be petrol cars for a while.
Conclusion: Which Car Should You Buy?
If you are asking yourself the question, “Electric car vs petrol car – which is better?” Let me make it easier for you:
An Electric Car Should Be Bought If You:
✔️ Want to cut down on fuel and maintenance perks.
✔️ Support environment-friendly options.
✔️ Have access to a charging point or can charge at home.
A Petrol Car Should Be Bought If You:
✔️ Frequently travel long distances.
✔️ Do not have charging points readily available.
✔️ Seek a more affordable vehicle that is easy to resell.
Both electric and petrol cars have their advantages and disadvantages. For those looking for a future-proof, eco-friendly, and cost-effective vehicle, EVs would serve them best. However, if you’re looking for a car meant for long-distance travel and convenience, petrol cars have the upper hand.
🚗💨 The decision is yours!
FAQs: Electric Car vs Petrol Car
Absolutely, EVs have fewer moving parts which means lower maintenance costs.
The average lifespan is 8-15 years before a replacement is needed.
Not at this moment.
Most EVs provide a range of 200 to 400 km per charge. In comparison, petrol cars can cover 500 to 800 km on a full tank of fuel.
Some countries intend to prohibit the sale of new petrol vehicles between 2035 and 2040. However, they will still allow the use of older cars.
An EV can reach 80% charge in 30 minutes with fast chargers, although home charging takes longer.
Absolutely! EVs are quiet, efficient, and perfect for stop-and-go traffic in urban areas.
