*Prices may vary depending on location, vehicle condition, and other aspects.

Chevrolet Bolt EV

Leading the charge in affordability, the Chevrolet Bolt EV is an excellent option for drivers looking for an electric vehicle that offers value and range. With a starting price that dips below $30,000 at your local Chevrolet dealer, this compact hatchback provides up to 259 miles of driving on a single charge, making it ideal for both city commuting and weekend road trips. The Bolt’s roomy interior, intuitive tech features, and impressive cargo space make it a versatile option for those who want a practical yet fun-to-drive EV.

Even though the Chevrolet Bolt EV isn’t currently in production, it’s still a smart buy if you can find a used or certified pre-owned model at a Chevrolet dealer. The Bolt is known for its reliability, so even if it is only a few years old, it remains one of the best budget-friendly EVs on the market.

Nissan Leaf

The Nissan Leaf has long been a popular choice for those venturing into the world of electric vehicles. With models available well under $30,000, the Leaf offers up to 226 miles of range, depending on the configuration. While it may not boast as much range as some competitors, the Leaf’s affordability, user-friendly technology, and strong reliability make it a fantastic option for budget-conscious drivers. Its compact size is perfect for city driving, and with a variety of trims available, there’s a Leaf to suit just about anyone’s needs.

Kia Soul EV

The Kia Soul SUV has always been known for its quirky design and spacious interior, but the electric version brings a whole new level of appeal. Priced affordably in the used market, the Kia Soul EV offers a fun driving experience with around 243 miles of range. Its boxy design allows for ample cargo space, and the Soul EV comes packed with advanced tech features, including a user-friendly infotainment system and active safety features. This makes it a strong contender for families and anyone who values a bit more room in their EVs.

Hyundai Ioniq 5

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a great option for those seeking an affordable yet stylish EV. Its futuristic design, spacious interior, and competitive driving range make it a standout in the EV market. Even in the pre-owned category, a lightly used Ioniq 5 can be found for under $30k, offering cutting-edge features and excellent performance. With its fast-charging capability and a range of up to 303 miles, this vehicle proves that affordable EVs can be both high-tech and highly
capable.

Toyota bZ4X

For those who want the reliability of a Toyota combined with the benefits of electric power, the Toyota bZ4X offers a great solution. This compact SUV provides an impressive range of up to 252 miles and includes Toyota’s well-known safety and driver assistance technologies. While it’s a newer model, you can still find pre-owned versions hovering just below the $30,000 price point, making it a solid option for anyone interested in a long-term investment in EV technology.

Go Green; Save Green With These Affordable EVs

Affordable electric vehicles are no longer a rarity, and options like the Chevrolet Bolt EV prove you can get a reliable, efficient, and fun-to-drive EV without spending a fortune. Whether you visit a Chevrolet dealer or explore other brands, there’s a wide range of budget-friendly EVs that will meet your needs while helping you reduce your carbon footprint.

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Kia’s EV Lineup

The current Kia EV lineup consists of the EV9, the EV6, and the Niro EV. The Kia EV9 is a midsize SUV with an estimated range of 304 miles, while the EV6 is a compact crossover with an estimated range of 310 miles. Finally, the Niro EV is a compact hatchback with an estimated range of 253 miles.

Kia also has a lineup of hybrid models, including the Sorento Hybrid, the Sportage Plug-in Hybrid, the Carnival MPV Hybrid, the Sorento Plug-in Hybrid, and the Sportage Hybrid. If you’re not ready to make the jump to a full EV, the hybrids provide an additional choice.

In terms of prices, the EV9 starts at $54,900, making it the largest and most expensive EV in the lineup. Next is the EV6 with a starting price of $42,600, and the most affordable EV is the Niro EV with a starting price of $39,600.

Hyundai’s EV Lineup

Hyundai’s current EV lineup consists of the high-performance Ioniq 5 N SUV, the Ioniq 6 electric sedan, the Ioniq 5 electric SUV, and the Kona Electric small SUV. Like Kia, Hyundai also offers several of its models in hybrid form, including the Tucson, Santa Fe, Sonata, and Elantra.

With a starting price of $66,100, the Ioniq 5 N performance SUV is Hyundai’s highest-priced EV. However, it boasts 641 horsepower and a long list of track-ready features. The Ioniq 6 electric sedan starts at a more affordable $37,750 and boasts up to 342 miles of range. The regular Ioniq 5 starts at $41,800 and gets up to 303 miles of range. Finally, there’s the affordable Kona Electric with 261 miles of range and a starting price of $32,875.

Comparing Kia and Hyundai’s EV Lineups

Starting with the two most affordable models, the Hyundai Kona Electric and the Kia Niro EV, the Hyundai model has a lower starting price and it has a higher estimated range of 261 miles vs the Kia’s 253 miles. For a small base model, Hyundai has a more efficient option.

In the middle of the lineup is the Kia EV6 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5. These are both compact crossovers. Again, the Kia model has a higher starting price by roughly $1,000, but it has a slightly longer range than the Hyundai model at 310 miles vs 303.

The Kia lineup features a midsize SUV that Hyundai doesn’t have, offering a respectable range at 304 miles. On the other hand, the Hyundai lineup has an electric sedan in the Hyundai Ioniq 6, not to mention a performance model with the Ioniq 5 N.

As long you don’t need a larger vehicle like the Kia EV9, your Hyundai dealer likely has the stronger EV lineup compared to Kia.

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Whether drivers are looking for a Hyundai IONIQ plug-in hybrid or a new three-row EV SUV, there are some serious changes to look out for in 2025.

The Hyundai IONIQ 6 remains essentially unchanged for the 2025 model year, gaining only a head-up display on the Limited trim, but there are more exciting developments for the line.

While it’s true that many drivers have missed the Hyundai IONIQ plug-in hybrid since its phase-out, just as many are pleased to welcome the IONIQ 9.

Major Changes for the IONIQ 5

The Hyundai IONIQ 5 gets some meaningful changes for the 2025 model year. The larger of the two IONIQ 5 battery packs gets an expanded capacity for 2025, growing from 77.4 kWh to 84.0 kWh and gaining extra miles of range. The IONIQ 5 also receives a new NACS charging port.

Aesthetically, the exterior of the IONIQ 5 gets some minor tweaks, including a larger rear spoiler, updated bumper styling, and a rear windshield wiper. The overall effect is to improve visibility.

In the cabin, the wireless smartphone charging pad in the center console has been relocated to the top panel, new buttons provide quicker access to features like heated seats and steering wheel, and the infotainment system has been upgraded.

The 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 also gets several new driver-assistance features. Expect a more advanced lane-keep assist and side-impact collision avoidance to join a roster already packed with active safety features.

Finally, the lineup also gets an XRT trim for 2025 that features a higher ride height, AT tires, and more off-road-ready bumpers.

The All-New Hyundai IONIQ 9

The Hyundai IONIQ 9 will not launch until the end of 2024, but it already has some drivers excited. Based on the concept IONIQ 7 developed in 2021, the electric-only SUV is built on the same platform as the IONIQ 5, but it will be more similar in size to the three-row Palisade.

The 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 9 has a target range of over 300 miles. Those in the know expect the IONIQ 9’s battery to charge from 10% to 80% in around 20 minutes when hooked to a 350 kW fast charger.

Although initial production of the IONIQ 9 is occurring in South Korea, the automaker plans to switch US production to its plant in Ellabell, Georgia, where it will soon begin manufacturing the IONIQ 5 models for US sales.

What About the Hyundai IONIQ Plug-In Hybrid?

Not everyone is ready to switch over entirely to a 100% electric vehicle. The infrastructure isn’t available everywhere, and not all drivers have a place to install a Level 2 charger at home. The new IONIQ lineup isn’t for them.

Unfortunately, there are no signs of Hyundai returning to manufacturing the Hyundai IONIQ plug-in hybrid. The best way for buyers to get their hands on a Hyundai IONIQ plug-in hybrid is to head to the dealership to look at used models.

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Introducing the IONIQ 5 N

The Hyundai IONIQ 5 is already an impressive vehicle. Now, drivers can also find a high-performance version of their favorite electric SUV at the Hyundai dealer. The IONIQ 5 N combines the best of the Hyundai N line with its EV tech to great effect.

Get Ready to Hit the Track

The AWD IONIQ 5 N features a dual-motor configuration that puts out 601 hp under regular use. Though that’s already an impressive feat, drivers who want an edge on the track can also use the N Grin Boost feature to temporarily bump power production up to 641 hp.

Because the IONIQ 5 N features an AWD system, drivers can choose to distribute power to the front or rear wheels using four different drive modes. They can also switch the IONIQ 5 N from Endurance to Sprint mode to unlock its full power potential.

The IONIQ 5 N hits 60 in three seconds and can complete a quarter-mile run in just over 11 seconds. It tracks straight during all-out launches and features controllable handling when needed. However, drivers can also switch to drift mode when they want to have a little fun.

Hyundai also caters to the needs of performance drivers with N e-Shift. The feature can be turned on and off, simulating a dual-clutch transmission by elevating feedback with rev-matching. N Active Sound+ also simulates engine noise.

Range, Charging, and Other Real-World Concerns

The Hyundai IONIQ 5 N features an 84 kWh battery pack that charges at speeds of up to 238 kW. With an EPA-estimated range of 221 miles of mixed driving, it doesn’t perform quite as well as the regular IONIQ 5 in this realm but holds up admirably as a high-performance EV.

Drivers familiar with the IONIQ 5 will find the 5 N’s cabin quite familiar. However, Hyundai has added a few extras to improve the driving experience. They include unique steering wheel features to access drive modes, regenerative braking, and N Grin Boost.

The IONIQ 5 N features the same infotainment system as the IONIQ 5, with separate 12-inch touchscreens for infotainment and a digital gauge cluster. Drivers will still get access to standard smartphone integration and voice-recognition software.

Enjoy a Wealth of Standard and Available Features

The IONIQ 5 N features track-ready tuning and more athletic hardware than the IONIQ 5, including a larger rear diffuser, wheels, brakes, and fenders. Inside the cabin, aggressively bolstered front seats make high-speed cornering a breeze.

Many active safety and driver-assistance features also come standard on the IONIQ 5 N, including automated e-braking, lane-keep assist, and more. Extras like adaptive cruise control with lane-centering are still add-on features for the 5 N.

Head to a Hyundai Dealer to See the IONIQ 5 N

Interested in learning more about the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N high-performance EV? The best way to get a feel for this impressive sports vehicle and what it has to offer is to head to the Hyundai dealer.

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Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs Ioniq 6: Quick Facts

When comparing the Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs. Ioniq 6, there are similarities but also differences between the two. The Ioniq 6 is a compact sedan and it offers more range and a slightly more affordable price than the Ioniq 5 crossover. However, the Ioniq 5 has more cargo space and will soon be available in a high-performance N model. Both models are built on the E-GMP platform and feature similar battery pack options and the choice between single and dual-motor powertrains.

Range and Efficiency

In terms of looks, the Ioniq 6 sedan has a more aerodynamic design with sleek lines and a lower ride height. This ultimately helps its driving range compared to the Ioniq 5 crossover. The highest range of the Ioniq 6 sedan is 361 miles on a full charge. The long-range version of the Ioniq 5 only manages 303 miles, which is good in general, but quite a bit less than the Ioniq 6.

It’s worth noting that the top range figure for the Ioniq 6 is only achievable with the SE trim and 18-inch wheels. If you move up to higher trims with 20-inch wheels and wider tires, the range goes down to 305 miles. On the Ioniq 5, the range quoted applies to all RWD models with the larger battery pack.

The range difference is minimal when it comes to comparing the AWD versions of both models. The Ioniq 6 AWD models get 270 miles of range, while the AWD models of the Ioniq 5 get 266 miles.

Power and Performance

The standard range RWD setup of the Ioniq 6 sedan makes 149 horsepower, while the long-range AWD model at the top of the lineup makes up to 320 horsepower. A midrange model with RWD and a single electric motor makes 225 horsepower. For the Ioniq 5, the base RWD setup makes 168 horsepower, but the midrange and top models deliver the same horsepower as the Ioniq 6 sedan.

A high-performance N model of the Ioniq 5 has been confirmed and it will offer dual electric motors with considerably more output than anything in the current model range. The exact specifications haven’t been confirmed yet, but it’s likely to be around 600 horsepower.

Interior Space

Both models are quite roomy inside. The Ioniq 6 is longer than the Ioniq 5 in overall length, but the crossover has a longer wheelbase. This translates to slightly less passenger space for the Ioniq 6 vs the Ioniq 5. In the front seats, the Ioniq 6 sedan has more legroom, but the Ioniq 5 crossover wins out with more rear legroom.

The hatchback body style of the Ioniq 5 also offers significantly more cargo space than the conventional trunk of the Ioniq 6 sedan. The Ioniq 5 features 27 cubic feet of space behind its rear seat, but the Ioniq 6’s trunk has only 11 cubic feet.

Prices and Trims

Unsurprisingly, the Ioniq 6 sedan is cheaper than the Ioniq 5 crossover, but only by a small amount. The sedan starts at $42,715 for the base trim, while the Ioniq 5 starts at $42,785 for its base model. At the top end, the prices look similar as well with the Ioniq 5 at $57,835 and the Ioniq 6 at $57,215. Both models come in SE, SEL, and Limited trim levels. Standard features for each are roughly the same, but the Ioniq 6 has a few additional exterior paint colors.

Ultimately, the two models are so similar that it really comes down to whether you prefer a crossover or a sedan. The Ioniq 5 wins out in interior space, but the Ioniq 6 is more efficient.

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Ready to Go Green? Head to Your Hyundai Dealer for a Test Drive

You can test drive these great models when you visit your local Hyundai dealer. Until then, read on to explore Hyundai’s 2024 electric and hybrid vehicle lineup and find the model that will best complement your lifestyle needs.

Enjoy the Space and Comfort You Want in a Hybrid or Electric Hyundai SUV

Hyundai has come a long way with its impressive selection of electrified SUVs. All electric models include the Kona and the IONIQ 5. The Kona boasts an impressive range of 250 miles on a full charge, while the IONIQ 5 pushes the range to 303 miles. Both models pair their electric power with a beautifully designed cabin and body style that embodies the future of EV powertrains.

You also find a number of SUVs that deliver impressive hybrid power. The well-loved Tucson hybrid offers an impressive EPA estimate of 38 MPG on the highway, making it the ideal commuter vehicle for drivers who want a compact SUV they can depend upon. The Tucson is also available in a plug-in hybrid variation in select states.

The redesigned Santa Fe is also available in a hybrid powertrain. The 2024 model touts a revised body style that has futuristic styling cues and modern tech features. Drivers can also shop the current hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains. Hybrid models deliver an EPA estimate of 36 MPG in the city, while the plug-in hybrid offers an all-electric range of up to 30 miles.

Shop Electrified Hybrid Sedans

Hyundai introduces the IONIQ 6, a sedan version of the well-loved hatchback-styled IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 5N. The IONIQ 6 boasts a really sleek and low-profile body style and delivers a range of up to 361 miles. This model will also be offered in a sporty N-Line trim for drivers who want to add additional power to the electric platform. The N-Line will top out at an impressive 320 horsepower thanks to its dual motor configuration.

The well-loved Hyundai Elantra and Hyundai Sonata will also be available in a hybrid powertrain. Both models maintain their status as the ideal commuter vehicle thanks to their impressive performance, beautifully designed cabin, and overall tech and safety features. The Elantra hybrid delivers an EPA estimate of 56 MPG, while the Sonata offers 54 MPG.

Additionally, both models are some of the most affordable hybrids available, with base models starting at around 28,000.

Test Drive Electrified Hyundai Models at Your Local Hyundai Dealer

It’s never been a better time to discover the electric and hybrid power of Hyundai vehicles. Check with your local dealership for the best deals on the family of Hyundai hybrid and electric vehicles. Unleash your inner speed demon with the all-new IONIQ 6, and discover the undeniable comfort of a Hyundai Tucson or Santa Fe SUV.

Best of all, when you shop for new hybrid and electric vehicles from Hyundai, you’ll get to enjoy the comprehensive coverage of America’s best warranty. Hyundai’s class-leading warranty provides a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and five-year/60,000-mile new vehicle warranty.

Visit your local Hyundai dealer to learn more about Hyundai’s lineup (including the upcoming IONIQ 7!) and test drive available hybrid and electric sedans and SUVs today!

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Nissan Leaf

The Nissan Leaf is an ideal choice for buyers who want to switch to an EV and have a short commute. Lease deals for this model tend to be pretty affordable. For example, $289 per month for three years. Like most affordable small EV models, the Nissan Leaf features a fairly short range of 149 miles on a full charge in the base trim.

Kia EV6

Increasing numbers of EV models are crossovers. The Kia EV6 is a sleek and sporty model with agile handling that gives it a fun driving experience. The cabin approaches luxury quality with many upmarket materials and styling. Recent lease deals on this crossover are for the Wind trim, which features a range of 310 miles and RWD. The EV6 Wind makes 225 horsepower. Inside, you’ll find modern features like a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, smartphone connectivity, and heated front seats.

Kia Niro EV

Kia has several lease deals on EV models right now. The Kia Niro is another one that makes a good choice for the first-time EV buyer. The Niro features FWD, a single-speed transmission, and an electric motor to make 201 horsepower and 253 miles of range. The base trim offers some decent standard features, like a 10.25-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone connectivity, wireless charging, and heated front seats.

Subaru Solterra

The new Subaru Solterra has both purchase and lease deals available. This EV offers a range of 220 miles, and it comes standard with AWD and a decent ability to perform off-road. The Subaru Solterra uses two electric motors to make 215 horsepower. Some of its all-terrain features include hill ascent and descent, selectable drive modes for different conditions, and grip control. Standard interior features include wireless smartphone connectivity and an eight-inch touchscreen.

Hyundai Ioniq 5

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 has been on the market for a few years but was recently refreshed to offer more range and efficiency. Lease deals are available for most models of this sleek crossover. The Ioniq 5 boasts plenty of standard features, including a safety suite, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and wireless smartphone connectivity.

Nissan Ariya

The Ariya is another new crossover with a handsome, modern appearance. It offers exceptional efficiency and plenty of standard equipment. The range for the Nissan Ariya goes up to 304 miles and AWD is available. Nissan offers a long list of standard features, and some lease deals allow you to choose additional options on top of the basic model.

Toyota bZ4X

This is Toyota’s new EV crossover, and it offers a comfortable cabin with simple furnishings. The bZ4X powertrain maxes out at 252 miles, which is roughly standard for this crossover segment. Standard equipment on this Toyota EV includes wireless charging, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, smartphone connectivity, and five USB ports.

Finding EV lease deals is relatively easy, but it may depend on your local area and what your nearby dealerships are offering. Lease deals may also change from month to month.

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Electric vehicles are creating a divided feeling in the automotive world. Some people love the EVs and their silent driving, cheap electric power, and clean burning features. Others feel that EVs cost too much, use far too many rare-earth metals, and require new charging stations, which only add to the ruin of the world’s landscape.

Should you drive an electric car, and are they cheaper to maintain and own than ICE models? Let’s explore.

What are we being told?

Most automakers tout lower maintenance costs for electric vehicles while also promising owners won’t need to visit service centers nearly as often with EVs as ICE models. Overall, fewer visits mean you’ll spend more time driving and less time at the service center, but the cost per visit could be greater for EVs. Electric cars are relatively new in Israel, and some owners are learning that these infrequent visits can be costly compared to what they paid per tip for gas-powered vehicles.

Still, the overall maintenance costs could be less for electric vehicles during a specific time period. The best way to learn about this is to compare gas and electric versions of nameplates that offer both types of vehicles. For this comparison, we’ll use the data collected by Car and Driver concerning the Hyundai Kona and Ford F-150, which offer gas and electric versions.

What are the maintenance cost comparisons?

When electric and gas versions of the same vehicles are compared, electric cars are cheaper to maintain. The three-year timeline provided for the Kona and F-150 shows the electric models cutting costs by almost $900 for the Kona and $600 for the F-150. The actual maintenance costs after 45,000 miles of driving are:

• Hyundai Kona: $0.0984 per mile/$4,428
• Hyundai Kona Electric: $0.0794 per mile/$3,573
• Ford F-150: $0.0933 per mile/$4,199
• Ford F-150 Lightning: $0.0794 per mile/$3,573

How much does the fuel cost for each vehicle type?

This is where comparisons become murky, and it’s hard to know how to gauge exactly what it costs to fuel different vehicle types. For the gas-powered versions of these two vehicles, Car and Driver used $3.70 per gallon for regular fuel, which was the national average fuel price at the time of their study. This means the gas-powered versions cost:

• Hyundai Kona: $5,162
• Ford F-150: $8,325

When looking at the electric versions of these two vehicles, the average rate of $0.1546/kWh is used for at-home charging. Of course, there are other factors to consider as well. Some drivers will use public charging exclusively, while others might never need to plug in at a DC fast-charger. We know these public chargers are much more expensive than at-home charging.

Tossing the figures in a bucket to figure out how much it costs to charge the electric versions of the Kona and F-150 for 45,000 miles, the total comes to:

• Hyundai Kona Electric: $2,548
• Ford F-150 Lightning: $4,529

What have we learned?

Are electric cars cheaper to maintain than gas-powered vehicles? In this example, the answer is a resounding “yes.” The difference we find is that EVs don’t have to visit the service center nearly as often as gas-powered vehicles, which is a plus, but those visits can be more costly each time, which is a negative.

Driving EVs is much less expensive than driving gas-powered vehicles, especially in areas where gasoline costs nearly $4.00 per gallon. It’s also much cheaper to recharge electric vehicles at home than out on the road.

Why are some drivers avoiding electric vehicles?

Typically, when you buy a vehicle, you’re familiar with how it drives, what to do to fuel the vehicle, and how to maintain it. Transitioning from a gas-powered vehicle to an electric model creates a challenge for most drivers. Where are the charging stations in your area? If you don’t know the answer to this question, you’ll need more information to change from a traditional model to an EV.

Another reason some drivers aren’t ready to make the change is the need for an at-home charger. Some people live in apartments and don’t have electric chargers at their buildings, while homeowners with garages might avoid an EV because running a 240-volt electric line and plug can be expensive.

Electric cars are cheaper to maintain so far, but we only have a few years and a small sample size. We won’t know everything about EVs until some have lasted for 20 or 30 years to prove they can stay on the road as long as some gas-powered vehicles. Still, EVs are cheaper to fuel and maintain, and they are cleaner to drive, which are only a few of the benefits of EVs.

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Strangely, everything associated with the gas vs. EV conversation doesn’t come down to simple math. During the vehicle’s life, an EV is much cheaper to fuel and maintain, but they come with a much higher initial cost. Gas cars cost less at the dealership but require more maintenance and will cost a lot more to fuel during their lifespan. Is there a bottom line we can follow for these two vehicle types? Let’s find out.

Direct comparisons provide the proof

For this comparison and some solid numbers, we’ll turn to Car and Driver. They compared two vehicles that offer both gas and electric versions. These vehicles are the Hyundai Kona and Kona Electric, and the Ford F-150 and Ford F-150 Lightning. Using these two vehicles offered with both an EV and gas version, we can find the underlying cause of this question. In addition to utilizing these two models, the Car and Driver team used a three-year cost analysis to create hard evidence of what each vehicle costs.

How much did each vehicle cost?

The starting point for cost analysis between an electric car and a gas car has to begin with price. Using the base trim of the two Hyundai SUVs and the XLT trim for the F-150s, we find that the starting purchase price of each vehicle is:

• Hyundai Kona: $22,595
• Hyundai Kona Electric: $35,295
• Ford F-150: $40,960
• Ford F-150 Lightning: $54,769

As you can see, the electric versions are much more expensive than the gas-powered models.

How much does each vehicle cost to fuel?

Using the three years of ownership an average of 15,000 miles-driven per year, each vehicle would drive for 45,000 miles during the testing time. The gas price used is $3.70 per gallon, but understanding the cost of charging electric vehicles is much more complicated.

Electric vehicles can charge at home and at public charging stations. Typically, the cost of using public chargers is much higher than what’s spent at home. Using the $0.43/kWh for DC fast charging and $0,15/kWh for at-home charging, we’re coming closer to a solid number. If electric car drivers charge at home 80% of the time and only 20% at public chargers, the calculations become clearer.

Overall, the cost to fuel these four vehicles during the first three years of ownership is:

• Hyundai Kona : $5,162
• Hyundai Kona Electric: $2,548
• Ford F-150: $8,325
• Ford F-150 Lightning: $4,529

These figures assume the EVs are charged to 100%, but most EVs only charge to 80% at public charging stations, which is not part of this calculation.

EV maintenance costs are much lower

The first three years of a vehicle’s life should be the most affordable in terms of overall maintenance and repairs. Still, gas cars are more expensive to maintain than electric cars. The figures for these four vehicles might surprise you because there’s not as wide a difference than some might expect.

The cost to maintain these vehicles is:

• Hyundai Kona: $4,428
• Hyundai Kona Electric: $3,573
• Ford F-150: $4,199
• Ford F-150 Lightning: $3,573

Which vehicles are cheaper to own?

Using fuel costs, maintenance costs, and depreciation over the three years of owning these four vehicles, the cost of ownership is:

• Hyundai Kona: $19,385
• Hyundai Kona Electric: $21,426
• Ford F-150: $26,505
• Ford F-150 Lightning: $23,840

Depreciation adds quite a bit to these figures. An item that hasn’t been considered yet is the Federal EV Tax Credit of $7,500, which would only be applied to the electric cars and not the gas cars.

From this figure, not counting the starting price of each vehicle, the Ford F-150 Lightning is much more affordable to operate than the gas-powered Ford truck. Conversely, the Hyundai Kona is more affordable than its electric counterpart.

Final Thoughts

Unfortunately, the figures for this comparison don’t produce a clear winner when trying to understand whether electric cars are cheaper to operate than gas cars. Also, the starting price wasn’t considered in the final calculation. If you toss those numbers in the mix, gas-powered vehicles are more affordable to operate during the first three years of ownership. Still, during time on the road, fuel and maintenance costs favor the EVs over gas-powered vehicles.

Although the goal was to find a clear picture, much like the conversations surrounding EVs vs gas cars, the results using two models are still clear as mud. Finding the right solution could mean performing your own comparison based on the vehicle considered.

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