Electric vs petrol car running costs in South Africa – The winner is clear
An interesting comparison that really gives this a local perspective, even given the high increases in the cost of electricity that South Africa has experienced.
One also has to factor in the servicing and maintenance costs over time such as services which require oil (various) changes, spark plugs, air filters, and brake pads. Electric vehicles using regenerative braking of course also have way less brake pad wear.
There is also the lowered emissions (both still give off micro-particles from the tyres and brake pads) and reduced noise levels.
The ever evolving battery is sometimes cited as a future cost, but to be honest by solar system battery is warrantied for 10 years or 4,000 full cycle charges, and it seems many EV batteries have already lasted that long too, before being repurposed for static storage solutions. That said, even combustion engines require major overhaul after 300,000 or 500,000 km. Advances and research suggest EV batteries may last 40% longer than earlier estimates, and some manufacturers are aiming for batteries capable of lasting approximately 1,600,000 km.
So although everything may not yet be perfect for EVs, there is a really strong case for their future, despite what a lot of heavy-duty PR from the oil companies may suggest. Every incumbent industry, throughout history, has always very strongly resisted any change away from their industry. It's just that today, industries are a lot better organised and have the financial power of lobbying at their disposal.
See
https://topauto.co.za/features/137133/electric-vs-petrol-car-running-costs-the-winner-is-clear#
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SouthAfrica