Are Electric Cars Cheaper to Run Than Filling Up With Petrol?

Electric cars are becoming more popular in many countries, including Bangladesh. People like them because they are quiet, clean, and use less fuel. Petrol prices are going up, so many wonder if electric cars can help save money. But are they really cheaper to use every day?

So, are electric cars cheaper to run than filling up with petrol?

Yes, electric cars are cheaper to run in Bangladesh. They use electricity that costs only 10 to 15 paisa per kilometer, which is much less than petrol. But buying an electric car is still expensive, and there are not many charging stations yet.

Keep reading to learn more about the real costs and whether an electric car is right for you.

Are Electric Cars Cheaper to Run Than Filling up With Petrol?

Yes, electric cars are cheaper to run than petrol cars in Bangladesh. They cost less per kilometer because of low electricity rates. Electric vehicles use 10 to 15 paisa worth of power per kilometer, which is much cheaper than petrol. Still, there are other things that make owning an EV harder for many people in the country.

Running Cost per Kilometer

Electric vehicles use much less money per kilometer compared to petrol cars in daily use across Bangladesh. Electricity for charging costs only 10 to 15 paisa per kilometer, which is much lower than fuel. This makes EVs a smart choice for regular city driving or short trips without needing too much fuel budget.

With petrol prices rising steadily, many drivers find EVs easier on the wallet. The growth of EV charging stations in Bangladesh is also helping make daily use more practical. For people with regular commutes, these cost savings can grow quickly over time.

High Purchase Price

The price of buying an electric car is still high in Bangladesh because of large import taxes and duties. Tariffs around 89% plus another 20% make EVs more expensive than petrol cars. This makes it hard for average buyers to choose electric over fuel-powered cars.

Petrol cars are cheaper upfront, so many people still prefer them even if EVs are cheaper to run. Without help from the government, the price gap will stay wide. Lowering import taxes would make EVs easier for more people to buy.

Charging Infrastructure Issues

There are not many charging stations in Bangladesh, especially outside big cities like Dhaka or Chittagong. Without enough charging points, it’s hard to use an EV for long trips. This makes people worry about getting stuck without a charge.

Fast chargers are also rare, which means longer wait times when charging on the go. Home charging works best, but not everyone has space or access. More stations would help more drivers feel ready to switch.

Tax on Charging Electricity

People who charge EVs at home enjoy lower electricity rates than at public or commercial charging points. But if high-voltage lines are used, the rate becomes commercial, raising the cost per charge. This takes away part of the savings for those using fast chargers.

Most drivers prefer home charging to keep costs low, but this isn’t possible for everyone. Clear rules and lower rates could help more users save. Fair pricing for all types of charging would support EV growth.

Maintenance and Repairs

Electric cars don’t need oil changes and have fewer moving parts, which makes them easier and cheaper to maintain. But in Bangladesh, it’s hard to find trained mechanics and service centers for EVs. This can be a problem when parts break or need replacement.

Many owners still save money on service over time, even with these issues. Finding reliable support will get easier as more EVs are sold. For now, people in cities find it easier to manage repairs than those in rural areas.

Why Should You Choose an EV Over Motor Vehicles?

Electric vehicles are becoming a smart choice for many drivers today. They offer real benefits that go beyond just saving fuel. Let’s look at the reasons why switching to an EV makes sense.

Cleaner for the Environment

• EVs don’t create tailpipe emissions, which helps reduce smog and smoke in cities with heavy traffic problems. Less pollution means healthier air for everyone, especially for children and older adults living near busy roads.
• Petrol cars burn fuel and release harmful gases like carbon monoxide, which worsens air quality every day. EVs help lower the carbon footprint and slow down damage to the planet’s climate.

Lower Costs to Run

• Electricity is cheaper than petrol in most places, so you spend less money each time you charge your EV. Daily driving becomes more affordable, which helps people save on long-term travel expenses.
• EVs don’t need oil changes or as many service visits, so owners save money on repair and upkeep costs. With fewer moving parts, there’s less chance of costly breakdowns or engine problems.

Smooth and Fun Driving

• EVs deliver power instantly, which makes them quicker when you press the pedal at traffic signals or turns. The ride feels smoother and gives a better response than traditional engine cars.
• Without noisy engines, the car stays quiet inside, even at high speeds or in busy areas. This calm experience makes long drives more relaxing and comfortable.

Easy and Flexible Charging

• You can charge your EV while parked at home, work, or even at the grocery store, saving extra trips. Charging during off-hours also helps avoid crowds and waiting times.
• Public charging stations are growing across cities, giving more freedom to travel without worrying about fuel. Some apps even show which stations are free or in use before you go.

Helpful Government Support

• Many countries give money back or reduce taxes when you buy an EV, which lowers the upfront cost. This support makes EVs more affordable for regular people, not just luxury buyers.
• EVs often get extra perks like lower road fees, parking discounts, or access to carpool lanes. These benefits encourage more drivers to choose electric cars instead of petrol cars.

Supports a Stronger Future

• EVs use electricity, which can come from solar or wind, instead of burning fossil fuels like petrol and diesel. This change helps move the country toward cleaner energy and better fuel independence.
• Relying on local electricity makes transportation systems more stable and reduces risk from fuel price shocks. Over time, this makes travel cleaner, safer, and more reliable for everyone.

Good for Long-Term Value

• With more people looking for eco-friendly options, the resale potential of electric cars is also improving each year. As EV technology grows, used electric vehicles stay in demand and hold their price better.
• Buyers who invest in EVs today may find it easier to sell them later without losing too much value. A strong resale market builds more trust in owning electric instead of petrol cars.

Will the Lower Running Costs of EVs Outweigh High Initial Expenses in Bangladesh?

Yes, the low running cost of EVs can cover the high buying cost over time in Bangladesh. EVs need only 7-8 Taka for a full charge, while petrol costs much more every day. Driving an EV saves money with each trip, which helps balance the high starting price. People who drive daily will notice these savings faster and may spend less in the long run.

But some things make EVs hard to afford for many people today. Import taxes and extra charges make them cost more than petrol cars at first. Charging spots are still few, and some users pay high electricity rates at home. The government is working to fix these issues, so EVs may become cheaper and easier to use soon. As more support comes in, owning an EV might be a better deal for many families in the future.

How Do Electricity Tariffs Affect the Overall Cost Savings of Electric Cars in Bangladesh?

Electric cars are becoming popular because they don’t need petrol, which saves money. But charging them isn’t always free or cheap. How much you pay for electricity makes a big difference in how much money you can save. Here is how electricity tariffs affect the overall cost saving of electric cars in Bangladesh.

Charging Costs

Charging an electric car at home is cheaper than using petrol, but the cost depends on how much power you use. The more you drive, the more often you need to charge, which can raise your electricity bill. Public stations charge more because they add extra fees and taxes. Charging at home at night might cost less than during busy hours. So, charging smartly can help save money.

Public Station Rates

Public charging stations in Bangladesh use a set rate of 7.70 Taka per kilowatt-hour of electricity. On top of that, there are extra monthly fees that make the cost go up. Fast chargers at these stations use more power, so they cost even more per charge. These extra charges make public charging less affordable than charging at home. That’s why many people avoid using public transportation too often.

Home Charging

Home charging is cheaper, but it still depends on your electricity plan and how much power you use every month. If you use too much power, the cost per unit goes up after a limit. But if you charge your car at night or during low-use times, the rate can be lower. Many EV users prefer home charging because it saves both time and money. It’s also more convenient for daily charging needs.

Extra Charges

Some commercial chargers add service charges that can raise the final cost of charging your car. These hidden costs surprise some users who think public charging will be cheap. With service and demand charges, the total cost may reach 14 to 16 Taka per unit. This makes a big difference if you charge your car often at public places. So, it’s good to check the full cost before using public chargers.

Government Plans

The government wants more people to use electric cars, so they’re working on new charging rules. They may set a new price for battery swapping stations to make them cheaper. Solar charging is also being added, which could help lower electricity use from the national grid. If these changes happen, users could save more money in the future. It’s a step toward making EVs better for everyone.

Tariff Problems

Some electricity prices for charging are still too high, which makes saving money harder for many users. People who don’t have a place to charge at home must use public chargers more often. That means they pay more, even though EVs are supposed to be cheaper. The government needs to fix this so everyone can save. Good prices will help more people switch to electric cars.

Are There Enough Charging Stations to Make EVs Practical for Long Trips in Bangladesh?

No, there are not enough charging stations yet to fully support long trips by electric vehicles in Bangladesh. While new stations are opening, most are in or near Dhaka, not across the whole country. EV travel over long distances is still hard without knowing where to stop and charge. Progress is happening, but EV users still face planning problems when leaving major city areas. Here are the key points to help you understand the situation better.

Charging Station Locations

Most charging stations are in Dhaka and nearby cities, not spread out across rural or remote regions. This makes long drives harder for people who live outside big towns or travel often across districts. Some stations are near highways like Dhaka-Chittagong, but coverage remains thin. Without more stations across the country, road trips by EV are still tricky.

Ongoing Expansion Plans

Companies like Genex and CrackPlatoon are adding new stations along highways and in key city locations. Mercedes-Benz and partners also plan more stations in Bangladesh to support their electric cars. These new stations help drivers feel safer about finding places to charge on the road. The full network still needs time to grow and reach more users outside big cities.

Fast Charging Development

Progress Motors has set up fast DC chargers that take about 25 minutes to fully charge an EV. These fast chargers make longer trips easier since drivers spend less time waiting to power up. More of these stations are needed along highways to support busy travelers. Without enough of them, trip planning takes more time and care.

Challenges in Operation

Some stations face slow progress because of unclear prices, fewer users, or delayed government permissions. A few spots are ready but not running due to low EV use in the area. Others don’t work smoothly yet because the rules and services are not fully set. These small issues add up and affect how useful a station really is.

Government Support and Goals

The government wants 30% of all cars to be electric by the year 2030 across the country. It supports charging station projects and wants solar power added to reduce grid pressure. These efforts help both the environment and car users who want more charging access. With steady work, EV travel will soon become easier and more common.

How Does Maintenance Complexity Impact the Affordability of Electric Vehicles Locally?

Electric cars are easier to care for than petrol cars, but some repairs still cost a lot of money. They don’t need many regular services, but fixing certain parts can be hard. Some areas don’t have trained workers or repair shops for electric cars. Let’s see how these things affect the cost of owning one.

• Fewer Parts Inside: Electric cars have fewer moving parts than petrol cars, so there’s less that can break down. This helps save money on many common repairs.
• No Engine Oil: EVs don’t need engine oil or fluid changes, so owners skip those costs. That means fewer trips to the service shop.
• Brakes Last Longer: These cars use a smart braking system that protects brake pads. Owners don’t need to replace them often, which saves money.
• No Old Car Parts: EVs don’t use spark plugs or belts like petrol cars do. Fewer parts mean fewer chances that something will break.
• Battery is Costly: The battery is the most expensive part of the car. If it breaks or wears out, replacing it can cost a lot.
• Need Special Repairs: Some problems need trained workers to fix. These repairs can take time and cost more than fixing petrol cars.
• Few Local Experts: In some towns, it’s hard to find someone who can fix electric cars. People may need to go far for help.
• Power Price Matters: Charging an EV depends on local electricity prices. If prices are high, it can cost more to drive the car.
• Not Enough Chargers: Without many charging points, it’s hard to travel far in an EV. This can be a problem in small towns.
• Offers and Help: Some places give money back or help with costs when you buy an EV. This can make the car cheaper to own.
• Selling Later: It’s still unclear how much used EVs will sell for. The battery’s age can affect the selling price later on.

Could Government Policies and Taxes Make EVs More or Less Economical Than Petrol Cars?

Yes, government rules and taxes can make electric cars (EVs) either cheaper or more costly than petrol cars in Bangladesh. Some steps help reduce EV prices, but others still make them expensive to buy. Let’s break down how these policies help or hurt the cost of owning an EV.

Helpful Policies That Make EVs Cheaper

• Lower Taxes on EV Parts: The government cut taxes on important EV parts and batteries by up to 60%. Makers of lithium and graphene batteries don’t need to pay VAT until 2027, and then only 5% until 2030.
• Easier Rules for Local EV Factories: There’s a plan for local EV makers to skip paying taxes until 2040. This will help reduce prices and make local EVs cheaper for buyers.
• Lower Import Taxes for EVs: Before, buying an imported EV meant paying up to 89% in tax. Now, it’s only about 33%, which helps lower the buying cost.
• Tax Breaks for Solar Charging Stations: The government gives tax benefits for setting up solar-powered EV chargers. This supports cleaner energy and helps reduce charging costs.
• Lower Registration Fees for EVs: EV registration fees are being cut, which reduces the total cost of owning an electric car in the long run.

Rules That Still Keep EVs Expensive

• High Tax on Ready-Made EVs: Even with cuts, fully built EVs from outside Bangladesh still cost a lot more than in some other countries. Others may charge as little as 0-25% tax, while Bangladesh still charges more.
• High Registration and AIT Fees: EV owners pay registration based on motor power, which is like engine size. This means people often pay Tk 3-4 lakh just to register, plus AIT fees of over Tk 1.5 lakh.
• New Slabs for EV Taxes: The BRTA wants to fix tax slabs for EVs based on motor power. While clearer, these rules still keep prices high for buyers.
• Import Tax Problems: Even with some changes, the current taxes on imported EVs can slow down sales. This makes petrol cars look cheaper at first, even if EVs cost less later.

Future Prospects

The government wants to make EVs more popular by lowering import taxes and giving local factories tax breaks. Along with these steps, offering tax incentives or subsidies for buying an EV in Bangladesh could help more people afford them. Until fees like registration and AIT drop, EVs will still cost more upfront. But with better support and fair rules, EVs could soon become the cheaper and smarter choice for drivers.

FAQs about EV Cost Efficiency

Electric cars are becoming more common, and many people wonder if they truly save money over time. Aside from fuel, other costs also matter when comparing EVs to petrol cars. Here are some useful FAQs that go deeper into the topic.

Do Electric Cars Save Money on Daily Commutes?

Yes, electric cars can save money on daily commutes because they use cheaper electricity and need less maintenance than petrol cars. Over time, these savings add up, especially for people who drive long distances every day.

Is Charging an EV at Home Cheaper Than Using a Public Station?

Charging at home is usually cheaper than using public stations, especially if done during off-peak hours. Public stations may include extra service fees and demand charges, making them more expensive than home charging in most situations.

Do EVs Have Lower Insurance Costs Than Petrol Cars?

Not always. Some EVs have higher insurance due to expensive batteries and repair costs, but this depends on the model. As more EVs enter the market, insurance prices may become more competitive and drop in the future.

Are EV Maintenance Costs Really Lower Than Petrol Cars?

Yes, EVs have fewer parts that wear out, like engines or exhaust systems, and don’t need oil changes. This helps cut down repair bills, though battery or software issues can be costly if they arise outside warranty periods.

Can EV Owners Benefit From Free Charging Options?

In some areas, workplaces or malls offer free charging to attract customers or support green travel. This helps EV owners save even more money compared to petrol car users, who must always pay for fuel.

Do EVs Help Avoid Fuel Price Hikes?

Yes, since EVs use electricity instead of petrol, they are not affected by sudden fuel price hikes. This makes them more stable in daily running costs, especially when fuel prices are high or unpredictable.

Does Battery Life Affect Long-Term EV Savings?

Battery life matters because replacing a battery can be expensive. However, most EV batteries last many years, and some come with long warranties. If maintained well, battery costs don’t usually affect overall savings too much.

Do Driving Habits Change the Cost Benefits of EVs?

Yes, smoother driving and regular charging habits can increase an EV’s efficiency and reduce energy use. Fast driving or sudden stops can lower mileage, but good habits can help owners save more compared to petrol cars.

Bottom Lines

Electric cars are cheaper to drive every day because electricity costs less than petrol in Bangladesh. They also need less fixing and no oil changes, which helps save money over time.

But they still cost more to buy at first, and charging spots are hard to find in many places. The answer to are electric cars cheaper to run than filling up with petrol depends on where you live and how often you drive. As more support and better rules come, electric cars will likely become a better and cheaper choice for many people.