With so much buzz around zero carbon emissions, the folks are debating on EV vs Petrol. Meaning whether to buy an EV car or a Petrol car. Undoubtedly, electric vehicles or electric cars are no less than superheroes actively participating in lowering pollution. But are they worth it for ordinary folks?
On top of that, the rising prices of petrol and diesel add one more question to the minds of folks- Should they buy an electric car?
Are you one of them? If yes, then you have come to the right place because we will go through a detailed comparison analysis of EV vs Petrol to help you decide which one is best suited for you…
Stay tuned!
(A) EV vs Petrol: A Brief Overview
Let’s have a look at the overall comparison of EV vs Petrol. We will briefly look at some key parameters in the following table-
| Parameters | Electric Car | Petrol Car |
| Fuel | Electrical energy from rechargeable batteries | Petrol (Internal Combustion Engine)- Conventional Fuel |
| Power Source | Electric motor | Internal combustion engine |
| Operation Noise | Silent | Audible engine noise |
| Cost | Expensive (Higher upfront price) due to advanced technology and complex powertrains. | Affordable |
| Fuel Cost | Low (Electricity cost) | High (Petrol prices) |
| Maintenance Cost | Low | High |
| Fuel Efficiency | Higher in the city, lower on highways | Higher on highways, lower on city roads |
| Carbon Emissions | Zero (No tailpipe emissions) | High (Produces CO2 emissions) |
However, you must keep in mind that your choice depends on factors like driving habits, budget, and environmental concerns.
(B) Benefits of EVs over Petrol
Let’s look at some of the key benefits of electric cars over petrol cars-
| Benefits of EVs | Particulars | Details |
| Cost-efficient operation | EV Charging Cost Comparison | Charging an EV with a 30.2 kWh battery and a 312 km range at home costs only Rs 697 per month. |
| Petrol Cost Comparison | In contrast, a 30 km daily commute in Delhi for a petrol car would incur a monthly expense of Rs 5,375. | |
| Cost per Kilometer Comparison | The cost per km for a petrol car with a mileage of around 17 km/liter is Rs 5.97, while for an EV with a 30.2 kWh capacity, it is only Rs 0.43 per km. | |
| Reduced maintenance expenses | EV Maintenance Benefits | Electric cars have fewer moving parts, resulting in lower maintenance costs. |
| Cost Estimate | Over five years, maintenance expenses for an EV are estimated to be around Rs 25,000, as opposed to Rs 7,000-10,000 annually for petrol or diesel variants. | |
| Environmentally friendly | Tailpipe Emission | EVs boast zero tailpipe emissions, contributing to reduced air pollution. |
| Power Plant Emissions | Acknowledging emissions at power plants, the overall carbon emissions from EVs are still lower compared to petrol or diesel cars. | |
| Enhanced performance | Energy Conversion Efficiency | EV batteries convert 59-62% of energy into vehicle movement, surpassing the 17-21% efficiency of petrol-run vehicles. |
| Driving Experience | EVs offer a quieter and smoother driving experience due to the absence of an exhaust system. | |
| Acceleration | Electric vehicles accelerate instantly, providing responsive performance with good torque. | |
| Interior Design | Most EVs have roomier interiors with flat floors due to their powertrains having fewer parts. | |
| Tax Incentives | Section 80EEB Deduction | Section 80EEB allows a deduction of Rs 1.5 lakh for interest paid on loans taken for buying EVs. |
| Budget 2021 Proposals | Electric and hybrid vehicles are exempt from the proposed ‘green tax’ on personal vehicles after 15 years. | |
| Additional Incentives | EVs are exempt from road tax and registration costs in states like Delhi. | |
| GST Reduction | The GST rate for EVs has been reduced from 12% to 5%. | |
| Switch Delhi’s Campaign | In Delhi, the campaign offers a subsidy of Rs 10,000 per kWh to the first 1,000 electric cars, with a cap of Rs 1.5 lakh per vehicle. |
These were all the positive aspects of electric cars in the comparative analysis of EV vs Petrol. In the next section, we will look at the flip side of electric cars.
(C) Drawbacks of EVs (Electric Cars)
Now, let’s look at the drawbacks and challenges faced by people purchasing electric cars-
| Drawbacks of EVs | Particulars | Description |
| Higher purchase price | Current Scenario | The significant deterrent for purchasing electric cars is the elevated upfront cost. |
| Offsetting Factors | Although this cost can be offset by lower fuel, running, and maintenance expenses, along with tax incentives, it remains a crucial factor for prospective buyers, as one can acquire a larger petrol car for a similar price. | |
| Lack of infrastructure | Charging Options | While home charging is an option, it is more economical to utilize public charging stations, which are currently limited in number. |
| Network Expansion | Private and public sector companies are expanding station networks, with initiatives such as FAME II adding 350 stations, Tata’s plan to build 10,000 stations in three years, IOCL’s aim to set up 10,000 stations in existing fuel stations, and BP’s goal to establish 7,000 stations in the next few years. | |
| Longer charging time | Time Discrepancy | Charging electric cars at home takes 6-8 hours, whereas even with fast chargers and larger batteries, it still requires 35-60 minutes to achieve an 80% charge, unlike the swift refueling of petrol/diesel cars. |
| Limited drive range | Range Constraint | Electric cars have a driving range of 200-400 km on a single charge, restricting their suitability mainly for intra-city drives due to the shortage of public charging stations. |
| Fewer options | Current Market Scenario | Presently, there are only 4-5 mass-market electric cars and 5-6 in the luxury segment in India. |
| Future Prospects | Although government incentives to manufacturers are expected to increase the variety, the current limited choices may impact consumer preferences. | |
| Higher insurance cost | Cost Dynamics | Electric vehicle insurance is pricier than that for petrol cars due to the advanced technology and high-capacity batteries, leading to higher Insured Declared Value (IDV). |
| Expense Factors | Despite having fewer parts, the components of electric cars are more expensive, especially the batteries, which are costly to repair or replace. Third-party insurance rates have a fixed 15% discount, but comprehensive policy rates remain higher and do not fully offset the discount provided by Irdai. |
(D) Benefits of Petrol Cars over EVs (Electric Cars)
Now, it is time to look at how petrol cars are still thriving in the market despite causing pollution and high prices of petrol-
| Benefits of Petrol Cars | Particulars | Details |
| Lower upfront cost | Affordability | Petrol cars generally have a lower initial purchase price compared to electric vehicles, making them more accessible to a broader consumer base. |
| Widespread infrastructure | Convenience of Refueling | Petrol stations are abundant and offer quick refueling, providing a more established and convenient infrastructure compared to the limited availability of public charging stations for electric cars. |
| Accessibility | Petrol stations are readily available even in remote areas, ensuring that drivers can refuel without concerns about charging infrastructure. | |
| Quick refueling | Time Efficiency | Filling up a petrol tank is a rapid process, taking just a few minutes, in contrast to the longer charging times required for electric cars, even with fast chargers. |
| On-the-Go Convenience | Petrol cars allow for spontaneous travel and unplanned stops, as refueling is swift and doesn’t require extended waiting times. | |
| Extended driving range | Versatility | Petrol cars typically offer a longer driving range on a full tank, providing more flexibility for longer trips without the need for frequent refueling or charging stops. |
| Long-Distance Travel | Petrol cars are well-suited for extended road trips, offering continuous driving without the need for frequent breaks to recharge. | |
| Diverse model options | Market Variety | The market for petrol cars is well-established with a wide range of options in various segments, offering consumers a plethora of choices in terms of size, style, and features. |
| Customization | Consumers can choose from various models, brands, and performance levels, allowing for a personalized selection that aligns with individual preferences. | |
| Familiar maintenance infrastructure | Service Accessibility | Petrol cars benefit from a well-established maintenance and repair network, with readily available expertise and spare parts, contributing to potentially lower maintenance costs compared to electric vehicles. |
| Ease of Repairs | Mechanics are more accustomed to petrol engine maintenance, resulting in quicker and often more cost-effective repairs. | |
| Reduced insurance costs | Insurance Expense | Insuring petrol cars can be more cost-effective as they generally have a lower overall vehicle cost and a well-established insurance framework. |
| Standardized Premiums | The mature insurance market for petrol cars may offer more standardized and competitive premium rates. | |
| Mature Technology | Proven Technology | Petrol engines have been refined over many years, offering a mature and reliable technology that has stood the test of time, providing a level of confidence for consumers. |
| Known Reliability | The well-established nature of petrol engine technology contributes to a perception of reliability and ease of maintenance. |
(E) Drawbacks of Petrol Cars
Most of you are already aware of the disadvantages of petrol cars. But still, we would like to explain the drawbacks of petrol cars in detail-
| Drawbacks of Petrol Cars | Particulars | Details |
| Environmental Impact | Air Pollution | Petrol cars emit pollutants, including carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter, contributing to air pollution and climate change. |
| Greenhouse Gas Emissions | The combustion of petrol releases greenhouse gases, contributing to the overall carbon footprint and environmental degradation. | |
| Fuel Dependency | Finite Resource | Petrol is a finite resource, and its extraction and consumption contribute to resource depletion. |
| Geopolitical Issues | The dependence on petrol can lead to geopolitical tensions and economic vulnerabilities related to oil-producing regions. | |
| Fluctuating Fuel Prices | Market Sensitivity | Petrol prices are subject to market fluctuations, geopolitical events, and economic factors, leading to unpredictable and potentially high fuel costs for consumers. |
| Maintenance Costs | Mechanical Complexity | Petrol engines involve intricate mechanical components that may require more frequent maintenance compared to electric vehicles. |
| Wear and Tear | Internal combustion engines are prone to wear and tear, potentially leading to higher long-term maintenance expenses. | |
| Noise Pollution | Engine Noise | Petrol engines generate noise during operation, contributing to noise pollution in urban and residential areas. |
| Impact on Well-being | Prolonged exposure to engine noise can have adverse effects on mental and physical well-being. | |
| Limited Energy Efficiency | Energy Conversion | Petrol engines have lower energy conversion efficiency compared to electric motors, resulting in a higher percentage of energy loss during combustion. |
| Wasted Energy | A significant portion of the energy in petrol is lost as heat during the combustion process. | |
| Limited Range | Driving Range | Petrol cars may have a limited driving range per tank, requiring frequent refueling for long-distance travel. |
| Inconvenience | Long journeys may involve multiple stops for refueling, causing inconvenience and longer travel times. | |
| Carbon Footprint | Carbon Emissions | Petrol combustion contributes directly to carbon dioxide emissions, adding to the global carbon footprint. |
| Climate Impact | The ongoing use of petrol cars exacerbates climate change concerns due to the cumulative effect of carbon emissions. | |
| Potential for Oil Spills | Transportation Risks | The transportation and storage of petrol pose the risk of oil spills, causing environmental damage and harming ecosystems. |
| Cleanup Costs | Mitigating the impact of oil spills requires significant resources, leading to economic and environmental burdens. |
(F) Comparing EV vs Petrol Variant of Tata Nexon
Do you find the above comparison a bit generalized? If yes, then don’t worry! In this section, we will deeply look into how the electric and petrol variants of Tata Nexon cost on various parameters.
Look at the table below-
| Particulars of Tata Nexon | Electric Variant | Petrol Variant |
| Ex-showroom price (Delhi) | Rs.14.24 lakh | Rs.8.29 lakh |
| Claimed mileage/range | 312 km | 17.4 km/liter |
| Running cost per month | Rs.392 (charging station), Rs.697 (home charge) | Rs.5,375 |
| Annual maintenance cost | RS.5,102 | Rs.6,500-7000 |
| Annual third-party insurance premium | Rs.1,855 (>30 kW) Rs.2,838 (30-65 kWh) Rs.6,707 (<65 kWh) | Rs.3,221 |
| Annual Comprehensive Insurance Premium | Rs.14,439 | Rs.7,096 |
| Car Life | 8-10 years | 15 years |
| Carbon Emissions (g Co2/km) | Nil | 117 (<1000cc) |
We would like to mention that these claims were made by Tata Nexon.
A Quick Recap
When it comes to EVs (Electric Vehicles) we have thoroughly covered the following topics–
- Tata’s Big EV Ambitions – Tata Group’s Biggest Bets For India
- Which Automobile Company Is Leading The Electric 2-Wheeler Race?
- Will Ola Electric IPO Be A Success? Complete Breakdown
- Ola vs Ather: Which Company Is Leading The EV Race?
- Potential Of Lithium In India & How It Can Help The Economy
- Ather Business Model: Full Breakdown & Analysis of EV Giant
- India vs China in EV: Exploring The Battle for EV Battery Dominance
Check out these articles for detailed information. All of these were written on the demand of our readers. We’re sure you would like them too!
(G) EV vs Petrol: Which Cars are better for people?
Choosing between Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Petrol Cars depends on various factors, and each option has its pros and cons.
Look, EVs are excellent for eco-conscious individuals. They produce zero tailpipe emissions, reducing air pollution and contributing to a cleaner environment. Moreover, EVs have lower operating costs as charging is often more affordable than buying petrol. They also benefit from government incentives, making them financially appealing.
However, on the flip side, Petrol Cars offer a well-established infrastructure with numerous refueling stations, ensuring convenience during long drives. The upfront cost of petrol cars is generally lower, making them more accessible for budget-conscious buyers. Additionally, petrol cars provide a familiar driving experience with quick refueling, suitable for those who may be hesitant to transition to electric.
In conclusion, if you prioritize environmental sustainability, cost savings in the long run, and government incentives, an EV might be your ideal choice.
However, if you value the convenience of a widespread infrastructure, lower upfront costs, and a familiar driving experience, a Petrol Car could better suit your needs.
Ultimately, the decision hinges on personal preferences, lifestyle, and environmental considerations.
(H) EV vs Petrol: Which Cars are better for the economy?
When it comes to the economy, Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Petrol Cars have different impacts. To determine who is the winner, we need to understand the significance of EV as well as petrol cars.
EVs contribute positively to the economy by reducing our dependence on imported oil. With their efficiency and reliance on domestic electricity, EVs can potentially enhance energy security, cutting down on oil-related expenditures.
Additionally, the growth of the electric vehicle industry stimulates innovation and job creation in manufacturing, infrastructure development, and research sectors. Government incentives for EVs can further drive economic growth by encouraging investment in green technologies.
On the other hand, Petrol Cars play a role in supporting the existing automotive industry and associated jobs. The widespread infrastructure for petrol vehicles, including refineries, distribution networks, and service stations, sustains a significant portion of the economy. While the petrol industry contributes to employment and revenue, it also faces challenges such as oil price volatility and geopolitical tensions affecting supply.
In conclusion, the economic impact of EVs and Petrol Cars varies. EVs offer potential benefits through reduced oil dependence, innovation, and job creation in the green sector. Meanwhile, Petrol Cars support existing industries but face challenges related to oil market dynamics.
The optimal choice for the economy depends on balancing the transition toward sustainability with the economic stability of established sectors.
