Thinking about buying your first car but stuck between an electric vehicle (EV) and a petrol/diesel one? You’re not alone. Most people hesitate because EVs still feel “new” and maybe even a little complicated. On the other hand, petrol and diesel cars are familiar—they’ve been with us for decades.
Here’s the truth: choosing your first car doesn’t have to be overwhelming. This guide will walk you step by step through EV vs petrol/diesel cars, covering cost, maintenance, and performance in simple way.
By the end, you’ll know exactly which option suits your lifestyle, budget, and peace of mind. Whether you’re a student, a young professional, or just someone buying their first ride, this article is your roadmap.
EV vs Petrol/Diesel Cars: The Big Picture
Before diving into details, let’s simplify:
- EVs (Electric Vehicles) run on batteries that you charge, just like your phone.
- Petrol/Diesel Cars burn fuel in an engine to move.
That’s the basic difference. But behind that, each has pros and cons in three big areas:
- Cost – upfront price, running costs, and long-term value.
- Maintenance – how often you’ll need repairs, service, and upkeep.
- Performance – driving comfort, power, and everyday usability.
Let’s unpack each.
Cost: Upfront Price vs Long-Term Savings
1. Upfront Purchase Price:
- Petrol/Diesel Cars are generally cheaper to buy today. A small hatchback petrol car might cost ₹5–7 lakh in India.
- EVs usually start higher. A compact EV may begin at around ₹8–10 lakh.
Yes, that extra price tag can feel intimidating. But remember—it’s only one side of the story.
2. Running Costs (Fuel vs Charging):
Here’s where EVs shine.
- Petrol/Diesel Cars:
- Petrol prices hover around ₹100/litre in many cities.
- Mileage: 15–20 km per litre for small cars.
- Cost per km: ~₹5–7.
- EVs:
- Average cost of charging at home: ₹6–8 per unit (kWh).
- Most EVs run ~6 km per unit.
- Cost per km: ~₹1–1.5.
So, if you drive 1000 km/month, your fuel bill could be:
- Petrol: ₹5000–7000
- EV: ₹1000–1500
That’s a huge difference.
3. Government Incentives & Subsidies:
- Many states in India offer EV subsidies, road tax waivers, or free registration.
- Petrol/Diesel cars? No such perks.
Verdict on Cost:
- Short term: Petrol/Diesel is cheaper to buy.
- Long term: EVs save you money every month on running costs.
Maintenance: Simplicity vs Complexity
How Engines Differ:
- Petrol/Diesel Cars have complex engines with hundreds of moving parts—spark plugs, pistons, fuel pumps, exhausts.
- EVs have a simple motor and battery—far fewer moving parts.
Service Needs:
- Petrol/Diesel Cars:
- Oil changes every 6 months.
- Filters, clutch, belts, and exhaust repairs.
- Frequent service bills.
- EVs:
- No oil changes.
- Minimal wear-and-tear.
- Only tyres, brakes, and battery checks.
Battery Life:
- EV batteries last 6–8 years on average. Replacing one is costly (₹3–6 lakh), but manufacturers now offer 8-year warranties.
Verdict on Maintenance:
- Petrol/Diesel Cars: More frequent and higher maintenance costs.
- EVs: Low-maintenance lifestyle, fewer headaches.
Performance: Comfort, Speed, and Practicality
1. Driving Experience
- EVs: Instant torque (they accelerate fast and smoothly). Quiet, no vibrations. Perfect for city driving.
- Petrol/Diesel: Familiar “engine roar.” Good for highway cruising.
2. Range & Refueling
- EVs: Range anxiety is real. Small EVs may run 200–300 km per charge. Charging takes 1 hour (fast charger) or 6–8 hours (home).
- Petrol/Diesel: Easy refueling in 5 minutes. Range 500–800 km per tank.
3. Long Drives
- Petrol/Diesel: Still better if you travel frequently on highways with limited EV charging stations.
- EVs: Best for cities, daily commutes, and moderate-distance trips.
Verdict on Performance
- EVs: Smooth, quiet, and perfect for cities.
- Petrol/Diesel: Reliable for long highway journeys.
EV vs Petrol/Diesel Cars: Pros and Cons at a Glance
EV Pros:
- Lower running cost per km.
- Minimal maintenance.
- Environment-friendly (zero tailpipe emissions).
- Smooth, quiet ride.
- Govt subsidies & tax benefits.
EV Cons:
- Higher upfront price.
- Limited charging stations in some areas.
- Longer refueling (charging) time.
- Battery replacement cost (after many years).
Petrol/Diesel Pros:
- Lower upfront cost.
- Easy to refuel anywhere in minutes.
- Better for long-distance highway trips.
Petrol/Diesel Cons:
- Rising fuel prices = costly to run.
- Frequent maintenance and servicing.
- Pollution and stricter government regulations.
- Depreciation risk as future bans on fossil fuels loom.
How to Decide: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
Still unsure? Use this quick checklist:
Step 1: Calculate Your Daily Drive
- Less than 100 km/day = EV makes sense.
- More than 300 km/day (highway travel) = Petrol/Diesel may be practical.
Step 2: Check Charging Options
- Do you have a parking spot with charging at home/work? If yes, EV is a strong choice.
- If no, petrol/diesel might be simpler for now.
Step 3: Budget for the Long Run
- Can you afford higher upfront cost today to save fuel bills for years? If yes, EV.
- If you need the lowest purchase price now, petrol/diesel.
Step 4: Think About Your Lifestyle
- City commute, college, office = EV.
- Road trips, intercity travel = Petrol/Diesel.
The Mindset Shift: EV Is Not Complicated
Many people hesitate because they think:
- “What if the battery dies?” → Batteries are insured and under warranty.
- “What if charging takes too long?” → Most people charge overnight, just like their phone.
- “What if it’s just a trend?” → EV adoption is rising fast; charging infra is growing every year.
Think of it this way: when smartphones arrived, many stuck to keypad phones saying, “This is complicated.” Today, nobody regrets switching. EVs are following the same path.
Conclusion:
When comparing EV vs petrol/diesel cars, the decision boils down to your lifestyle:
- If you want low running costs, easy maintenance, and a future-proof choice, EVs are the way forward.
- If you need long-distance flexibility and the lowest upfront price, petrol/diesel cars still serve well—for now.
But remember: the world is moving toward electric. Early adopters not only save money but also help the planet.
So, ask yourself: Do you want to keep spending on rising fuel costs, or invest in a smarter, cleaner, and cheaper-to-run car?