Electric car vs Petrol car: Which one is better?

Are electric cars better than petrol? Which is cheaper - an electric car or a petrol car? Are EVs more expensive to maintain as compared to fuel-powered cars? These are some of the questions that surround the minds of potential EV buyers as the electric engine is still a new-age technology. There is a mist of confusion among the buyers regarding whether to stick with a petrol car or go for an electric car. So, today we are weighing the key aspects of the two options, such as buying price, cost of running, CO2 emissions, driving experience, and more to help you decide which should you choose.

Buying Cost 

One of the obstacles in the way of electric vehicles market growth is the steep range of electric cars in comparison to petrol cars. Although options like the Hyundai Kona Electric and Nissan Leaf are available in the local market, electric cars are still significantly more expensive. These tend to be more expensive for two main reasons - the average cost of manufacturing the battery, and the fact that this tech is still fresh in the automotive market. The battery companies are rigourously working to bring down the cost that will make EVs more accessible and attractive to consumers. However, for now, buyers need to shell out more for EVs than petrol vehicles.

Cost of running

Electric cars do not need fuel as they run with electricity, which is cheaper than fuel. In Malaysia, the price of the electricity required to charge an electric vehicle is almost 40% less than the price of fuel required for a similar-sized vehicle driving the same distance. You can charge the electric car overnight by installing EV charging units at your home garage instead of going to a gas station. However, for fast charging, you can use public charging stations available in nearby areas that can charge the battery up to 80% within an hour.

Maintenance costs

While the buying cost of electric cars is high, the cost of their maintenance and service is relatively lower than their petrol counterparts. The reason is electric cars have very few moving parts to look after as compared to ICE-powered machines. The latter requires regular oil changes, maintenance of other mechanical parts as well as replacement of worn-out parts. The maintenance of electric vehicles, on the other hand, requires fewer frequent visits to the service centre for inspection of battery health and brake fluid top-ups.

CO2 emissions

Petrol cars are powered by internal combustion engines, which consume fuel to generate power and release harmful gases like Carbon Dioxide, Carbon Monoxide, and Sulphur Dioxide. These gases are not only harmful to nature but also the human body. A great demand to address these growing emissions has made electric vehicles more attractive in comparison to petrol cars. The former does not use any kind of fuel to generate energy. Instead, they are fitted with an electric motor, which converts the electrical energy from a battery to rotate the wheels. Thus, there are no emissions, which means electric cars are better for the environment as well as our health.

Driving experience

EVs offer a smoother and silent driving experience with electric motors as the only moving parts. The battery delivers energy to these motors, which further led to high torque and quick acceleration. On the contrary, energy processes through gears, clutches, and the engine in the case of the petrol car. The contact of these parts creates sound waves which can be felt as vibrations in the car’s cabin. By opting for an electric car, you can enjoy a vibration-free driving experience.

Regenerative braking

Regenerative braking is a well-known feature available in hybrid and electric cars that are designed to enhance their overall range. Basically, it is a system that prevents the wastage of energy. When you use the car’s brakes, energy gets wasted. But the regenerative braking solves this issue by capturing that energy and giving it back to the vehicle after converting it into electricity.

Summing up

While the buying cost of electric cars is high, they offer huge savings in terms of fuel and maintenance, which makes them cost-effective as compared to petrol cars. Plus, their benefit for the environment and our health also put them one step above their petrol counterparts. What do you think? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

Also read: How safe are electric vehicles?