EV vs Petrol Comparison
EV vs Petrol Cost: Canberra → Melbourne
How much cheaper is an electric vehicle compared to petrol on this 560 km route? Prices updated 21 May 2026.
Cost Comparison
One-way energy cost for EV models vs petrol vehicles. Home charging at AUD 0.33/kWh, DC fast at AUD 0.79/kWh.
| Vehicle | Energy used | Home charge | DC fast | Saving vs car |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BYD Atto 3 | 88.9 kWh | AUD 28.98 | AUD 70.22 | AUD 60.58 saved |
| Tesla Model 3 | 80.0 kWh | AUD 26.08 | AUD 63.20 | AUD 63.47 saved |
| Volvo XC40 Recharge | 133.3 kWh | AUD 43.47 | AUD 105.33 | AUD 46.09 saved |
| MG4 | 82.4 kWh | AUD 26.85 | AUD 65.06 | AUD 62.71 saved |
| BMW iX3 | 103.7 kWh | AUD 33.81 | AUD 81.93 | AUD 55.75 saved |
| Petrol Car (Regular) | 46.7 L | AUD 89.55 | — | reference |
| Petrol Van (Diesel) | 62.2 L | AUD 125.00 | — | reference |
DC Fast Charging Time
Time to recharge the energy used for this 560 km route at DC fast charge speed.
Australia EV Electricity Rates
Rates used in the calculations above.
EV Questions: Canberra to Melbourne
Is an EV cheaper than petrol for Canberra to Melbourne?
Yes, on home charging, the best EV option for this 560 km route costs approximately AUD 26.08, compared to AUD 89.55 for a petrol car on Regular. That's a saving of AUD 63.47 per one-way trip. DC fast charging is slightly more expensive but still competitive.
How long does it take to recharge an EV for this route?
It depends on the EV and charger type. On a DC fast charger, most EVs listed here can replenish the energy used for this route in 10–40 minutes. Home AC charging typically takes several hours for the equivalent energy. See the charging time breakdown in the table above.
What is the electricity rate for EV charging in Australia?
The home charging rate used here is AUD 0.33/kWh. Public DC fast charging is estimated at AUD 0.79/kWh. Rates may vary by charger operator and subscription plan.
Which EV is most efficient for highway driving in Australia?
Among the reference models listed here, the Tesla Model 3 achieves approximately 7.0 km/kWh on highway routes, making it one of the most efficient for long-distance travel. Real-world performance may vary with speed, air conditioning, and load.
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