EV vs Petrol Comparison
EV vs Petrol Cost: Toowoomba → Cairns
How much cheaper is an electric vehicle compared to petrol on this 1611 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 | 255.7 kWh | AUD 83.36 | AUD 202.01 | AUD 174.26 saved |
| Tesla Model 3 | 230.1 kWh | AUD 75.03 | AUD 181.81 | AUD 182.60 saved |
| Volvo XC40 Recharge | 383.6 kWh | AUD 125.04 | AUD 303.02 | AUD 132.58 saved |
| MG4 | 236.9 kWh | AUD 77.23 | AUD 187.16 | AUD 180.39 saved |
| BMW iX3 | 298.3 kWh | AUD 97.26 | AUD 235.68 | AUD 160.37 saved |
| Petrol Car (Regular) | 134.3 L | AUD 257.63 | — | reference |
| Petrol Van (Diesel) | 179.0 L | AUD 359.61 | — | reference |
DC Fast Charging Time
Time to recharge the energy used for this 1611 km route at DC fast charge speed.
Australia EV Electricity Rates
Rates used in the calculations above.
EV Questions: Toowoomba to Cairns
Is an EV cheaper than petrol for Toowoomba to Cairns?
Yes, on home charging, the best EV option for this 1611 km route costs approximately AUD 75.03, compared to AUD 257.63 for a petrol car on Regular. That's a saving of AUD 182.60 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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