⚡ EV Cost-Saving Simulator (Pro+)
💡 Assumptions: Gasoline 2.31 kg CO₂/L (~8.74 kg CO₂/gal), Electricity 0.45 kg CO₂/kWh. Rates are 2025 U.S. averages.
How the EV Cost-Saving Simulator Works
The EV Cost-Saving Simulator (Pro+) estimates the financial and environmental impact of switching from an internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle to an electric vehicle (EV). It compares fuel costs, electricity costs, maintenance savings, upfront price differences, and carbon emissions using transparent, formula-based calculations.
Purpose of the Calculator
Vehicle electrification decisions involve multiple variables beyond sticker price. This simulator helps users understand long-term operating costs, break-even periods, and potential CO₂ reductions under realistic assumptions. The tool is designed for education, scenario analysis, and cost comparison.
Fuel Cost Calculation (ICE Vehicle)
Annual fuel cost for a gasoline vehicle is calculated using fuel efficiency, fuel price, and annual driving distance.
Annual Fuel Cost (ICE) = (Annual Miles ÷ Fuel Efficiency in mpg) × Fuel Price per Gallon
This assumes consistent driving behavior and average real-world fuel economy.
Electricity Cost Calculation (EV)
EV energy consumption is estimated using electricity efficiency measured in kilowatt-hours per 100 miles.
Annual Electricity Cost (EV) = (Annual Miles ÷ 100) × EV Efficiency (kWh/100mi) × Electricity Price per kWh
Annual Operating Cost Savings
Annual savings come from reduced energy costs and lower maintenance expenses.
Fuel Saving = ICE Fuel Cost − EV Electricity Cost Total Annual Saving = Fuel Saving + Annual Maintenance Saving
Maintenance savings reflect fewer moving parts, no oil changes, and reduced brake wear commonly associated with EVs.
Payback Period (Break-Even Analysis)
The payback period estimates how many years of operation are required for cumulative savings to offset the higher upfront EV cost.
Payback Period (years) = (EV Price − ICE Price − Tax Incentive) ÷ Annual Saving
A shorter payback period indicates faster financial recovery from the initial investment.
Carbon Emissions Comparison
The simulator estimates annual CO₂ emissions from both vehicles using standard emission factors.
ICE CO₂ Emissions = (Annual Miles ÷ mpg) × 8.74 kg CO₂ per gallon EV CO₂ Emissions = (Annual Miles ÷ 100) × EV Efficiency × 0.45 kg CO₂ per kWh Annual CO₂ Reduction = ICE Emissions − EV Emissions
Electricity emissions depend on grid carbon intensity. The default value represents an approximate U.S. average.
Charts and Visualization
The simulator visualizes results through bar, line, and pie charts:
- Annual energy cost comparison (ICE vs EV)
- Cumulative return on investment over time
- Relative CO₂ emissions reduction
Data Sources and Assumptions
- U.S. EPA – Vehicle fuel economy and emissions factors
- U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) – Fuel and electricity prices
- International Energy Agency (IEA) – Grid carbon intensity benchmarks
- Peer-reviewed EV maintenance cost studies
Limitations
- Does not account for insurance, depreciation, or resale value
- Real-world efficiency varies by driving style and climate
- Electricity carbon intensity varies by region and charging time
- Tax incentives depend on eligibility and local regulations
This simulator provides approximate estimates for educational and comparison purposes only. It does not constitute financial, environmental, or purchasing advice. Actual costs and emissions may differ based on individual circumstances and local conditions.
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