EV vs Petrol Comparison
EV vs Petrol Cost: Ashburton → Cambridge
How much cheaper is an electric vehicle compared to petrol on this 850 km route? Prices updated 10 April 2026.
Cost Comparison
One-way energy cost for EV models vs petrol vehicles. Home charging at NZD 0.36/kWh, DC fast at NZD 0.52/kWh.
| Vehicle | Energy used | Home charge | DC fast | Saving vs car |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BYD Atto 3 | 134.9 kWh | NZD 48.57 | NZD 70.16 | NZD 136.94 saved |
| Tesla Model 3 | 121.4 kWh | NZD 43.71 | NZD 63.14 | NZD 141.80 saved |
| Volvo XC40 Recharge | 202.4 kWh | NZD 72.86 | NZD 105.24 | NZD 112.66 saved |
| MG4 | 125.0 kWh | NZD 45.00 | NZD 65.00 | NZD 140.51 saved |
| BMW iX3 | 157.4 kWh | NZD 56.67 | NZD 81.85 | NZD 128.85 saved |
| Petrol Car (Regular 91) | 70.8 L | NZD 185.51 | — | reference |
| Petrol Van (Diesel) | 94.4 L | NZD 211.46 | — | reference |
DC Fast Charging Time
Time to recharge the energy used for this 850 km route at DC fast charge speed.
New Zealand EV Electricity Rates
Rates used in the calculations above.
EV Questions: Ashburton to Cambridge
Is an EV cheaper than petrol for Ashburton to Cambridge?
Yes, on home charging, the best EV option for this 850 km route costs approximately NZD 43.71, compared to NZD 185.51 for a petrol car on Regular 91. That's a saving of NZD 141.80 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 New Zealand?
The home charging rate used here is NZD 0.36/kWh. Public DC fast charging is estimated at NZD 0.52/kWh. Rates may vary by charger operator and subscription plan.
Which EV is most efficient for highway driving in New Zealand?
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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