An EV looks economical only when charging, tyres, and depreciation sit in the same ledger.
This calculator estimates annual ownership cost using real charging split, home tariff, public rate exposure, tyre spend, insurance, and a conservative depreciation line. It is designed for comparison against your present operating reality rather than marketing claims.
Illustrative annual profile
Example assumes 14,200 miles, 82% home charging, and a three-year depreciation curve on a mid-size crossover.
EV total cost calculator
Use annual distance, efficiency, charging split, and major non-energy items to build a practical cost view for one operating year.
Why this model matters
Energy cost is visible and easy to quote. The rest of the ledger requires more discipline.
Charging split shifts the answer
Two owners of the same vehicle can land on meaningfully different annual costs if one relies on public rapid charging for a third of their energy.
Depreciation remains central
Ownership debates often focus on charging price while the largest annual line sits in residual value movement. It deserves explicit treatment.
Tyres and insurance are not rounding errors
Heavier vehicles and higher torque can move tyre budgets quickly. Insurance changes may erase part of the expected energy saving.