Compare running costs
How much does 100 km cost in an electric, petrol or diesel car?
There is no single price for 100 km. It depends on real-world consumption, the energy price you pay and how you charge. A useful comparison keeps the trip consistent and makes each assumption visible.
Calculate with your own data
A charging price, consumption figure and reference car are enough for a useful estimate.
Open the free calculatorThe basic calculation
For an electric car, the cost of 100 km is consumption in kWh/100 km multiplied by the price paid per kWh. For a petrol or diesel car, the same logic applies: litres/100 km multiplied by the price per litre.
The formula is simple, but it avoids a common mistake: comparing a rapid-charging tariff with a home-charging price, or a generic fuel average with the wrong reference car.
What actually changes the result
Consumption changes with the model, speed, weather, tyres, terrain and load. For electric driving, home, public and rapid charging can have very different prices, so the charging mix matters as much as the displayed tariff.
The combustion comparison also depends on the reference vehicle. An efficient small petrol car and a diesel SUV do not start from the same point. Volora lets you choose the comparison car rather than hide that choice behind a generic average.
Compare without fooling yourself
Use your usual consumption when you have it. Otherwise start with a cautious estimate and adjust it after several trips or charging sessions. Compare energy cost before making a conclusion about total ownership cost: insurance, maintenance, finance and depreciation are not included in a trip-cost calculation.
The useful result is not a universal number. It is an estimate that matches your car, country and driving pattern.
Assumptions and limits
- The calculation compares energy used over the same distance; it is not the vehicle’s total cost of ownership.
- Prices and consumption need updating when your tariff, charging habits or vehicle change.
- Results are estimates, not a substitute for a charging invoice, mileage record or purchase quote.
Read the methodology and sources to understand the data used by Volora.
Frequently asked questions
Is an electric car always cheaper per 100 km?
Not in every situation. Home charging and moderate consumption can produce a very different result from frequent rapid charging. The calculation should reflect your actual charging pattern.
Should I use WLTP consumption?
It is a useful starting point, but consumption observed on your own trips is more useful. Volora lets you adjust consumption and prices.
Does the calculation include CO₂?
Volora estimates use-related CO₂ separately. It is not a full vehicle life-cycle assessment.