Electric Car vs Petrol Car: Which is Best For You?

Published on 1 Sept, 2021, 9:28 AM IST

Updated on 13 May, 2025, 8:22 AM IST

Team Ackodrive

12 min read

Interesting Articles

Deciding between an electric car and a petrol car is one of the most critical concerns for buyers. With rising fuel prices, growing environmental concerns, and government initiatives, the debate of electric car vs petrol car is more relevant than ever. This article will walk you through everything you need to know before choosing between an electric or petrol vehicle in India.

Contents

What is an Electric Car?

An electric car runs on a motor powered by a rechargeable battery pack. Instead of using petrol or diesel, it draws electricity from home charging stations or public EV chargers. EVs (Electric Vehicles) are known for their quiet operation, zero tailpipe emissions, and lower running costs than traditional petrol vehicles.

This is how an electric car works:

The battery pack stores the electricity needed to power the vehicle.
A controller regulates the flow of electricity from the battery to the electric motor.
The electric motor then converts this electrical energy into mechanical energy, which drives the car.
Finally, the transmission delivers this power to the wheels, propelling the vehicle forward.

What is a Petrol Car?

A petrol car, also known as an Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicle, operates by burning petrol to generate power. It is the most traditional form of vehicle technology and remains popular because of its widespread availability, quick refuelling, and often lower initial cost than electric vehicles. Petrol vehicles have been the dominant choice in India for decades due to established infrastructure and familiarity.

Let’s take a closer look at how it works:

In a petrol car, the engine burns a mixture of petrol and air.
Spark plugs ignite this mixture, creating controlled explosions that generate mechanical energy to power the engine.
This energy is then transferred through the transmission system, which manages the power flow and delivers it to the axles and driveshafts.
These components rotate the wheels, propelling the car forward.

Electric Car vs Petrol Car: Key Differences

When looking at electric car vs petrol car options, the differences extend beyond just the fuel source:

Parameter	Electric Cars	Petrol Cars
Performance	Instant torque delivers quicker acceleration.	Powerful, but takes longer to reach peak performance.
Running Costs	Lower running cost per kilometre as electricity is cheaper.	Higher running costs due to higher petrol prices.
Maintenance	Fewer moving parts, resulting in lower maintenance costs.	More components, leading to higher maintenance expenses.
Range	Generally, lower driving range compared to petrol cars.	Longer driving range on a full tank.
Charging/Refuelling	Charging takes time, even with fast chargers.	Refuelling is quick and takes only a few minutes.
Environmental Impact	Zero tailpipe emissions.	Emits CO₂ and other pollutants, contributing to environmental harm.

Electric Car vs Petrol Car: Cost Comparison

When comparing the overall costs of owning an electric car versus a petrol car, there’s much more to consider than just the price tag. Several factors influence the actual cost of ownership, from registration fees and insurance premiums to long-term maintenance and resale value.

Here's a detailed breakdown to help you understand where electric and petrol cars stand across different cost parameters:

Initial Purchase Price: Electric cars are generally more expensive than petrol cars due to costly battery packs and electric drivetrains. However, the price gap is expected to narrow as EV technology improves.
Registration Fees: Many Indian states waive electric vehicle registration fees and road taxes, offering immediate savings. Petrol vehicles, however, must pay these fees based on state regulations.
Insurance Costs: Electric cars typically have higher insurance premiums because their parts, like batteries, are expensive to replace. Petrol vehicles usually have lower insurance rates due to cheaper, more readily available parts.
Running Cost: EVs are more economical for daily running costs. Charging is significantly cheaper than refuelling with petrol, making electric cars a cost-effective choice over the long term.
Maintenance: Electric cars have fewer moving parts and no need for oil changes, resulting in lower maintenance costs than petrol cars, which require regular servicing due to more complex engines and components.
Resale Value: The resale market for EVs is growing, but still unpredictable due to rapid technological advances. Petrol cars, however, have a more stable and mature resale market, even though they depreciate steadily over time.

Factors Affecting the Overall Cost of Electric and Petrol Cars

Several factors impact the total cost of ownership for electric and petrol cars:

Ex-Showroom and On-Road Price

Electric vehicles (EVs) generally have higher upfront costs due to expensive battery packs and advanced technology. In contrast, petrol cars come in a wider price range, making them more accessible for different budgets. With petrol vehicles, you also get more variety across brands and models.

Cost of Fuel

One of the biggest wins for EVs is their lower fuel cost. Charging an electric car is far cheaper than refuelling a petrol vehicle, and electricity prices tend to stay more stable than ever-fluctuating petrol rates. Over time, this can mean major savings per kilometre.

Registration & Road Tax

Many Indian states offer big tax benefits for electric cars, such as waived or reduced registration and road tax fees. Petrol cars, however, don’t get these perks and usually attract the full charges, adding to their lifetime ownership costs.

Insurance

EVs typically have higher insurance premiums because replacing high-cost components like batteries is expensive. Petrol cars, by comparison, are cheaper to insure since their repairs and parts are more easily available and affordable.

Depreciation

Electric cars depreciate faster due to rapid advancements in EV technology, making older models lose value quicker. Petrol cars, however, experience a more predictable and gradual decline in resale value, following well-established market trends.

Electric Cars vs Petrol Cars: Government Incentives in India

India’s government is actively reshaping policies, tax breaks, and incentives to push the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). These measures play a huge role in making EVs more affordable and accessible to a broader audience.

FAME II (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles)

Under the ₹10,000 crore FAME II scheme, the government offers direct subsidies to reduce the upfront cost of electric vehicles. This makes EVs more attractive for private buyers and also supports green public transport solutions like electric buses and three-wheelers.

PLI Scheme (Production-Linked Incentive)

The PLI scheme rewards companies that manufacture electric vehicles and battery components locally. By promoting domestic production, India aims to cut down on imports, boost self-reliance, and make EVs cheaper over the long term.

Battery Swapping Policy

At select charging points, EV owners can now quickly swap drained batteries for fully charged ones. This policy greatly reduces waiting times and is especially useful for electric two- and three-wheelers, making EV ownership more practical and hassle-free.

Reduced Import Duties

The government has slashed import duties on lithium-ion batteries and other key EV components. Lowering these costs helps manufacturers and buyers alike, further driving down the overall price of electric vehicles in India.

Pros and Cons of Electric Cars

Electric cars are gaining popularity, but it's essential to weigh the pros and cons before making a purchase.

Pros:

Smooth, quiet driving experience.
Lower running and maintenance costs compared to petrol vehicles.
Instant torque and quick acceleration.
Zero tailpipe emissions make them eco-friendly vehicles.
Eligible for government tax benefits and subsidies.
Convenient home charging options.

Cons:

Limited driving range compared to petrol cars.
Public charging stations are scarce in many areas.
Longer charging times unless using fast chargers.
Higher upfront purchase cost.
Expensive battery replacements over time.

Pros and Cons of Petrol Cars

Petrol cars have been a staple for years, offering their own set of pros and cons.

Pros:

Lower initial purchase cost.
Available in a wide range of models and brands.
Quick refuelling time.
Greater driving range, ideal for long trips.
Easy access to service centres and mechanics.

Cons:

Higher fuel and maintenance costs.
Significant carbon emissions.
Vulnerable to fluctuating fuel prices.
Requires frequent servicing and upkeep.

Factors Favouring Electric Car Purchase

Electric cars are becoming increasingly popular due to their environmental benefits and cost savings. Here are some key reasons why EVs are a great choice:

Running Costs: EVs are more cost-effective since electricity is typically cheaper than petrol, offering long-term savings, especially for frequent drivers.
Low Maintenance: With fewer moving parts than petrol cars, EVs require less maintenance, saving you money on repairs and eliminating the need for oil changes and exhaust system fixes.
Environmental Impact: Electric cars produce zero emissions, reducing your carbon footprint and contributing to cleaner air and a healthier planet.
Driving Experience: EVs provide a smooth, quiet ride with quick acceleration, making for a more enjoyable and relaxing driving experience without engine noise or vibrations.
Incentives: Governments often offer tax breaks, subsidies, and rebates to make EVs more affordable and attractive to buyers.

Factors Favouring Petrol Car Purchase

Despite the numerous benefits of electric cars, many people still opt for petrol vehicles due to their reliability. Here are some key reasons why petrol cars remain a popular choice:

Affordability: Petrol cars are typically more affordable upfront, making them accessible to a wider range of budgets. This price advantage makes them an attractive option for many buyers.
Wide Selection: Whether you're looking for a hatchback, sedan, or SUV, petrol cars come in various shapes and sizes, offering something for everyone in terms of style and preference.
Performance: Known for their power, petrol cars offer high-performance engines, making them ideal for those who enjoy a lively, responsive driving experience with faster top speeds.
Infrastructure: With a well-established network of petrol stations and service centres, it's easy to maintain and refuel a petrol car, without the concern of finding charging stations.
Proven Technology: Petrol cars have been around for decades, and their technology is tried, tested, and reliable. Many people continue to trust petrol vehicles for their long history of stability and support.

Conclusion

Which car is better, petrol or diesel? Choosing an electric vehicle vs a petrol vehicle ultimately depends on your lifestyle, driving habits, and financial goals. An electric car makes sense if you want an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and future-ready vehicle. A petrol vehicle remains a solid choice if you need convenience, lower upfront investment, and extensive refuelling access. In today's electric and petrol car market, each option has its strengths, so weigh them carefully. With evolving policies and technology, EVs are slowly becoming the smarter bet for the long haul in most urban scenarios.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about electric cars vs petrol cars.

Which is better: a conventional fuel car or an EV car?

The answer depends on your needs and preferences. Electric vehicles (EVs) are environmentally friendly, cost less to maintain, and have lower running costs. They offer quick acceleration and a smooth, quiet driving experience. However, petrol cars still provide greater range, faster refuelling times, and a wider selection of models. It ultimately comes down to factors such as budget, driving habits, and access to charging infrastructure.

Should I buy an EV in India?

If you're looking to reduce your carbon footprint, lower your running costs, and take advantage of government incentives, an EV could be a great choice in India. While the infrastructure for EVs is still developing, cities are gradually increasing charging stations. Additionally, rising petrol prices and growing environmental awareness make EVs a more attractive option for many.

Why will EVs fail in India?

EV adoption in India faces challenges such as limited charging infrastructure, high initial costs, and range anxiety. Many consumers are also hesitant to switch from traditional petrol cars due to unfamiliarity with EVs and concerns about battery life. While government incentives are helping, these barriers need to be addressed for EVs to gain broader acceptance.

Which country is using more EVs?

Norway leads the world in electric vehicle adoption, with over 50% of new car sales being electric. Other countries like China, the United States, and several European nations are also seeing rapid growth in EV sales, driven by government incentives, environmental policies, and a growing charging infrastructure.

Which is better, conventional fuel or electric?

It depends on your driving needs. Electric cars are better for the environment, have lower running and maintenance costs, and offer a smooth driving experience. Traditional fuel cars, however, provide greater range, faster refuelling, and a wider range of options. Electric might be the better choice if you're looking for something more sustainable and cost-effective in the long term.

Do electric cars have gears?

No, most electric cars do not have traditional gears like petrol or diesel cars. This is because electric motors provide torque instantly, making them capable of moving smoothly without needing gear shifts. Typically, electric cars have a single-speed transmission, but they don't require gear changes while driving.

Do electric cars need oil?

No, electric cars do not require oil changes. Unlike petrol or diesel cars that rely on oil to lubricate the engine and other moving parts, electric cars have fewer moving parts and operate on an electric motor, which doesn't need oil for lubrication. However, some maintenance might still be required, such as for the brake system, tyres, lubrication for bearings, etc.

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