Operating Costs for Electric Vehicles Higher than Gas Powered Vehicles

The Anderson Economic Group has found that the fuel cost for certain electric vehicles is now higher than similar gas-powered vehicles. The report discovered that in Q4 of 2022 typical mid-priced internal combustion engine vehicle drivers paid about $11.29 to fuel their vehicles for 100 miles of driving. That cost was about $0.31 cheaper than the amount paid by mid-priced EV drivers charging residentially, and over $3 less than EV drivers charging commercially.

Propane autogas, however, offers consumers an economically and environmentally favorable alternative, even when compared to gasoline. Motor gasoline emits 17.86 pounds of CO₂ per gallon whereas autogas emits 12.68 pounds of CO₂  per gallon. Also, propane autogas costs approximately 30% less than gasoline. Autogas makes a more cost-effective fuel, having the longest driving range of any alternative fuel on the market.

When compared to electric vehicles, propane powered vehicles also retain a competitive edge. Propane vehicles have the range advantage over EVs, with Class 4-7 propane autogas vehicles achieving a range of up to 350 miles on a single fueling compared to a range of approximately 120 miles for electric work trucks. A Class 4-7 EV also has a price tag that is up to 4 times higher than a comparable propane autogas vehicle.

Although electric vehicles appeared to be outpacing gas powered vehicles in 2021 and much of 2022, reality has caught up with the complex market which relies upon the availability – and reliability – of grid electricity. For more information, please contact NPGA’s Manager of State Government Affairs, Austin Wicker.