EV vs Petrol Comparison
EV vs Petrol Cost: Mackay → Cairns
How much cheaper is an electric vehicle compared to petrol on this 709 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 | 112.5 kWh | AUD 36.69 | AUD 88.91 | AUD 76.69 saved |
| Tesla Model 3 | 101.3 kWh | AUD 33.02 | AUD 80.02 | AUD 80.36 saved |
| Volvo XC40 Recharge | 168.8 kWh | AUD 55.03 | AUD 133.36 | AUD 58.35 saved |
| MG4 | 104.3 kWh | AUD 33.99 | AUD 82.37 | AUD 79.39 saved |
| BMW iX3 | 131.3 kWh | AUD 42.80 | AUD 103.72 | AUD 70.58 saved |
| Petrol Car (Regular) | 59.1 L | AUD 113.38 | — | reference |
| Petrol Van (Diesel) | 78.8 L | AUD 158.26 | — | reference |
DC Fast Charging Time
Time to recharge the energy used for this 709 km route at DC fast charge speed.
Australia EV Electricity Rates
Rates used in the calculations above.
EV Questions: Mackay to Cairns
Is an EV cheaper than petrol for Mackay to Cairns?
Yes, on home charging, the best EV option for this 709 km route costs approximately AUD 33.02, compared to AUD 113.38 for a petrol car on Regular. That's a saving of AUD 80.36 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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