EV vs Petrol Comparison
EV vs Petrol Cost: Preston → Cambridge
How much cheaper is an electric vehicle compared to petrol on this 308 km route? Prices updated 18 May 2026.
Cost Comparison
One-way energy cost for EV models vs petrol vehicles. Home charging at GBP 0.28/kWh, DC fast at GBP 0.92/kWh.
| Vehicle | Energy used | Home charge | DC fast | Saving vs car |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BYD Atto 3 | 48.9 kWh | GBP 13.54 | GBP 44.98 | GBP 26.86 saved |
| Tesla Model 3 | 44.0 kWh | GBP 12.18 | GBP 40.48 | GBP 28.21 saved |
| Volvo XC40 Recharge | 73.3 kWh | GBP 20.31 | GBP 67.47 | GBP 20.09 saved |
| MG4 | 45.3 kWh | GBP 12.54 | GBP 41.67 | GBP 27.85 saved |
| BMW iX3 | 57.0 kWh | GBP 15.79 | GBP 52.47 | GBP 24.60 saved |
| Petrol Car (Petrol) | 25.7 L | GBP 40.40 | — | reference |
| Petrol Van (Diesel) | 34.2 L | GBP 63.84 | — | reference |
DC Fast Charging Time
Time to recharge the energy used for this 308 km route at DC fast charge speed.
United Kingdom EV Electricity Rates
Rates used in the calculations above.
EV Questions: Preston to Cambridge
Is an EV cheaper than petrol for Preston to Cambridge?
Yes, on home charging, the best EV option for this 308 km route costs approximately GBP 12.18, compared to GBP 40.40 for a petrol car on Petrol. That's a saving of GBP 28.21 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 United Kingdom?
The home charging rate used here is GBP 0.28/kWh. Public DC fast charging is estimated at GBP 0.92/kWh. Rates may vary by charger operator and subscription plan.
Which EV is most efficient for highway driving in United Kingdom?
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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