Electric Car vs Petrol Car – Which One is Better for You?

If you are planning to buy a car, then you may be wondering which type of car to go for. With the entry of electric vehicles (EVs) on the scene, there is a lot more variety. EVs have been gaining popularity due to their eco-friendliness and cost-effectiveness. Insurance companies have been coming up with specialised electric car insurance policies as well. While EVs indicate innovation and a sustainable way of travelling, conventional petrol cars are familiar and a safer option for many people. If you are confused as to what you should buy next, an electric car or a petrol one, we are here to guide you. We compare the ownership costs and other features of electric cars vs petrol cars to help you decide the ideal option.

Electric Car

When it comes to an electric vehicle vs a petrol vehicle, an electric car runs on electricity stored in batteries, making it an environmentally friendly option. It is known for its quiet operation, zero tailpipe emissions, and lower running costs. Unlike petrol vehicles, electric vehicles (EVs) require charging instead of fueling at petrol stations, making them suitable for those with easy access to charging stations. The biggest advantage of electric cars is their minimal impact on the environment, as they produce no harmful emissions. Moreover, they offer smoother rides with fewer mechanical parts, reducing the need for frequent maintenance. Despite these benefits, electric cars have challenges, such as higher initial costs and limited charging infrastructure in some areas.

Petrol Car

When comparing electric vs petrol car, petrol cars have always been the go-to choice for decades, offering familiarity, reliability, and an extensive fueling network. These vehicles are powered by internal combustion engines, which run on petrol, providing excellent power, performance, and the convenience of quick refueling at numerous stations. While petrol cars offer lower initial costs than electric cars, they tend to have higher long-term expenses due to fuel consumption and maintenance. Petrol cars also contribute significantly to environmental pollution, emitting greenhouse gases and other pollutants. However, their widespread availability and advanced technology make them a preferred choice for many car buyers.

Differences Between Electric Cars and Petrol Cars

Feature	Electric Cars	Petrol Cars
Fuel Type	Electricity from batteries	Petrol (gasoline)
Environmental Impact	Zero emissions	High emissions
Maintenance	Low (fewer moving parts)	High (engine maintenance needed)
Refueling Time	Long (charging takes hours)	Quick (fueling takes minutes)
Running Cost	Low (electricity is cheaper)	High (petrol prices fluctuate)
Performance	Smooth, instant torque	Powerful, but slower acceleration
Availability of Infrastructure	Limited charging stations	Extensive petrol stations

Pros and Cons of Electric Cars

Electric cars offer eco-friendly transportation but have higher upfront costs and limited charging infrastructure. Let’s understand more below:

Pros:

1. Environmentally friendly with zero emissions.
2. Low running costs, especially for daily commuting.
3. Fewer moving parts, leading to less maintenance.

Cons:

1. High initial purchase price.
2. Limited charging infrastructure in some areas.
3. Long charging time compared to refueling petrol cars.

Pros and Cons of Petrol Cars

Petrol cars provide immediate power and a wider range, but they contribute to pollution and have higher fuel costs. Let’s get to know some of its pros and cons below:

Pros:

1. Lower initial costs compared to electric cars.
2. Extensive fueling infrastructure for easy refuelling.
3. Powerful engines provide high-speed performance.

Cons:

1. Higher fuel costs over time.
2. Contributes significantly to air pollution.
3. More frequent maintenance due to complex engine components.

Comparing Ownership Costs: Electric Cars Vs Petrol Cars 

Now that you have a basic understanding of the difference between the two types of cars, let’s have a slightly detailed comparison of their ownership costs. This can help you determine the drawbacks and benefits of buying electric cars and petrol cars in India. Let’s use the example of Tata Nexon, which is available as an EV and as a petrol car as well. Let’s assume each type of car is to be driven for 10,000 km in a year

- Ownership costs of an electric car

To calculate the ownership costs of the Tata Nexon EV Max for a year, we will have to consider the average on-road price, electric car insurance costs, fuel price, driving range, and maintenance costs. On-road price of the car: Rs 16.5 lakhs Car insurance costs: Rs 70,000 (often included in the on-road price) Driving range: 453 km (per charge) Maintenance costs: Rs 4000 (since EVs require lower maintenance costs). To calculate the fuel price, let’s look at the following: The Tata Nexon EV takes up (approx.) 30 units of electricity for a single charge. Let’s assume the cost of one unit is Rs 7. To cover 10,000 km, the number of units taken would be 662 (10,000 x 30 / 453). Thus, the fuel price would be Rs 4634 [662 (total units per year) x 7 (price per unit)]. Let’s summarise the above through a table:

Particulars	Costs
Fuel costs	Rs 4,634
Maintenance costs	Rs 4,000
Total costs	Rs 8,634

Since the insurance cost of an EV policy in India is often included in the on-road price, we are not including the same in the above table. The total costs would be approximately Rs 8,634 in addition to the on-road price (Rs 16.5 lakhs) of the car for a year.

- Ownership costs of a petrol car 

To calculate the ownership costs of the Tata Nexon XM variant, which is a petrol car, let’s look at some similar parameters. On-road price: Rs 8.9 lakhs Car insurance costs: Rs 42,000 Fuel efficiency: 17kmpl For calculating the fuel price, let’s assume the average price of petrol to be Rs 100 per litre. The fuel consumed by the car in a year would be 590 litres (10,000 x17), which would cost Rs 59,000 (590 x 10,000). Since the Tata Nexon XM is an SUV, the service and maintenance costs for it can be estimated at Rs 8000 for a year. Here is the above info in a tabular form:

Particulars	Costs
Fuel costs	Rs 59,000
Maintenance costs	Rs 8,000
Total costs	Rs 67,000

The total costs for the year can reach Rs 67,000. Thus, while EVs may require lesser ownership costs per year, their on-road price tends to be high. On the other hand, petrol cars tend to be relatively affordable but have higher ownership costs. Each one has its pros and cons. If you have a petrol car and wish to convert it to an electric car, you can even look up the applicability and the price of a petrol to electric car conversion kit. Such a resource may help you lower your budget in case you wish to convert your car.

Electric Car or Petrol Car: Which Car Is Better for You?

Choosing between an electric vehicle vs fuel vehicle depends on your personal needs. If you prioritise eco-friendliness, lower running costs, and live in an area with easy access to charging stations, an electric car may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you need a vehicle for long-distance travel or prefer a wider fueling network with quicker refuelling options, a petrol car might suit your lifestyle better. Always consider your driving patterns, budget, and the availability of charging or fueling infrastructure when making your decision. Additionally, whether you opt for an electric or petrol car, it’s essential to have car insurance 3rd party coverage to protect yourself and others on the road. Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company offers the most suitable car insurance for your needs.

FAQs

Is an electric car better than a petrol car?

It depends on your priorities. Electric cars are more eco-friendly and cheaper to run, but petrol cars offer more convenience with widespread fueling stations and a lower upfront cost.

Which performs better between electric cars vs petrol cars?

Electric cars provide smoother and faster acceleration due to instant torque. Petrol cars, while slower to accelerate, often provide more raw power for high-speed driving.

Is there any tax benefit for electric vehicles?

Yes, under Section 80EEB of the Income Tax Act, individual taxpayers can claim a deduction of up to INR 1.5 lakh on the interest paid on loans taken specifically for purchasing electric vehicles. This provision was introduced in the Union Budget 2019 to promote eco-friendly transportation and reduce pollution

Which one is free from road tax between electric and petrol cars?

In India, electric vehicles (EVs) are generally free from road tax in several states, while petrol cars are subject to road tax.

Which is faster, a petrol or an electric car?

Electric cars generally have quicker acceleration due to the instant torque generated by their electric motors. However, petrol cars may perform better at higher speeds.

Which car to buy, petrol, diesel, or electric car?

Your decision should be based on your driving habits, budget, and access to charging or fueling infrastructure. Each type offers distinct advantages depending on your needs.

Do electric cars have gears?

Most electric cars do not have traditional gears. Instead, they use a single-speed transmission because electric motors deliver power instantly and consistently. *Standard T&C apply Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.