Study Shows EVs 33% Cheaper to Run Than Petrol Cars in the EU

A new study by the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) reveals that electric vehicles were 33% more affordable to operate than petrol-powered cars across the European Union last year. The ‘EV Transition Check’ report highlights the significant cost advantage of EVs, driven largely by lower energy prices and efficiency gains.

The ICCT projects that the gap will widen further in 2026 as the ongoing oil crisis continues to push fuel prices upward. While electricity rates have also risen, the study notes that EVs remain the more economical choice, especially with the growing availability of home charging and public fast-charging networks.

Experts suggest that this trend could accelerate the transition to electric mobility, as running costs become a decisive factor for consumers. With governments offering incentives and automakers expanding their EV lineups, the financial case for going electric has never been stronger.