**Introduction:**
It is a well-known fact that operating an electric vehicle (EV) is often cheaper than fueling a gas car. However, a recent study conducted by iSeeCars has shed light on the higher purchase prices of EVs, which result in higher costs per mile compared to internal combustion vehicles. The research analyzed the costs of operating different fuel types over a specific period, revealing interesting insights into the economics of EV ownership.
**The Cost Discrepancy Between EVs and Gas Vehicles:**
According to the iSeeCars study, EV owners drove an average of 10,256 miles during the study period and incurred costs of $5,108 per 1,000 miles. In contrast, gas vehicle owners drove 12,813 miles on average, with costs amounting to $3,123 over the same distance. This discrepancy highlights the significant cost difference in operating EVs compared to gas vehicles.
**Costs per 1,000 Miles for Different Fuel Types:**
The study also examined the costs per 1,000 miles for various fuel types, including hybrids, gas cars, plug-in hybrids, and EVs. The findings revealed the following average costs:
– Hybrids: $3,056
– Gas Cars: $3,123
– Plug-In Hybrids: $4,351
– EVs: $5,108
**Factors Contributing to Lower Mileage in EVs:**
One possible reason for the lower mileage driven by EV owners is the concern over range anxiety and the limited availability of charging infrastructure. These factors could deter EV owners from extensive travel, leading to higher costs per mile as the higher purchase price is spread over fewer miles.
**The Impact of Higher EV Purchase Prices:**
The iSeeCars study found that the average price of an EV was $52,387, significantly higher than the $40,009 average price for gas vehicles. The higher-end EV models, such as the Porsche Taycan EV and Tesla Model S, contributed to this average price discrepancy. This higher initial investment in EVs makes them more expensive to drive over time compared to gas vehicles.
**The Rise of Hybrids and Predictions for the Future:**
As automakers continue to electrify popular models, hybrids have become more prevalent in the market. These vehicles offer better fuel economy than gas cars and are more affordable than EVs. iSeeCars’ executive analyst Karl Brauer predicts that hybrids will surpass gas models in popularity in the coming years, as more manufacturers shift away from exclusive EV strategies.
In conclusion, while operating an EV may be cheaper than fueling a gas car, the higher purchase prices of EVs and lower mileage driven by owners result in higher costs per mile. The rise of hybrids as a more economical and practical alternative to gas and EVs signals a potential shift in the automotive industry towards more sustainable and cost-effective transportation options.