EV vs Petrol Comparison
EV vs Petrol Cost: Preston → Southampton
How much cheaper is an electric vehicle compared to petrol on this 395 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 | 62.7 kWh | GBP 17.36 | GBP 57.68 | GBP 34.45 saved |
| Tesla Model 3 | 56.4 kWh | GBP 15.63 | GBP 51.91 | GBP 36.18 saved |
| Volvo XC40 Recharge | 94.0 kWh | GBP 26.04 | GBP 86.52 | GBP 25.77 saved |
| MG4 | 58.1 kWh | GBP 16.08 | GBP 53.44 | GBP 35.72 saved |
| BMW iX3 | 73.1 kWh | GBP 20.25 | GBP 67.30 | GBP 31.55 saved |
| Petrol Car (Petrol) | 32.9 L | GBP 51.81 | — | reference |
| Petrol Van (Diesel) | 43.9 L | GBP 81.88 | — | reference |
DC Fast Charging Time
Time to recharge the energy used for this 395 km route at DC fast charge speed.
United Kingdom EV Electricity Rates
Rates used in the calculations above.
EV Questions: Preston to Southampton
Is an EV cheaper than petrol for Preston to Southampton?
Yes, on home charging, the best EV option for this 395 km route costs approximately GBP 15.63, compared to GBP 51.81 for a petrol car on Petrol. That's a saving of GBP 36.18 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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