How much does it cost to charge an EV?
Last reviewed 28 July 2026
The short answer
Multiply the energy added in kilowatt-hours by your electricity price, then allow roughly 8% to 15% for charging losses. Public rapid charging usually costs more than home charging and varies widely by network and country.
Calculate a single charge
A 60 kWh battery charged from 20% to 80% receives about 36 kWh before losses. At an electricity price of 0.25 per kWh, the energy portion costs about 9 in the same currency.
Some public networks add time, connection, or parking fees. Use the final session price when comparing networks.
Calculate cost per distance
Multiply the car’s consumption in kWh per 100 km by the price per kWh. This makes an EV directly comparable with a hybrid measured in litres per 100 km.
Avoid the full-battery shortcut
Drivers normally pay to replace what they use, not to fill an empty battery. Annual distance and efficiency give a more useful ownership estimate than the price of one full charge.
Prices, incentives, connectors, warranties, and specifications differ by country. Confirm the local order sheet and current terms before purchase.