EV vs Petrol Comparison
EV vs Petrol Cost: Chicago → San Jose
How much cheaper is an electric vehicle compared to petrol on this 3549 km route? Prices updated May 11, 2026.
Cost Comparison
One-way energy cost for EV models vs petrol vehicles. Home charging at USD 0.18/kWh, DC fast at USD 0.64/kWh.
| Vehicle | Energy used | Home charge | DC fast | Saving vs car |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BYD Atto 3 | 563.3 kWh | USD 99.43 | USD 360.53 | USD 1228.49 saved |
| Tesla Model 3 | 507.0 kWh | USD 89.49 | USD 324.48 | USD 1238.43 saved |
| Volvo XC40 Recharge | 845.0 kWh | USD 149.14 | USD 540.80 | USD 1178.78 saved |
| MG4 | 521.9 kWh | USD 92.12 | USD 334.02 | USD 1235.80 saved |
| BMW iX3 | 657.2 kWh | USD 116.00 | USD 420.62 | USD 1211.92 saved |
| Petrol Car (Regular) | 295.8 L | USD 1327.92 | — | reference |
| Petrol Van (Diesel) | 394.3 L | USD 2223.65 | — | reference |
DC Fast Charging Time
Time to recharge the energy used for this 3549 km route at DC fast charge speed.
United States EV Electricity Rates
Rates used in the calculations above.
EV Questions: Chicago to San Jose
Is an EV cheaper than petrol for Chicago to San Jose?
Yes, on home charging, the best EV option for this 3549 km route costs approximately USD 89.49, compared to USD 1327.92 for a petrol car on Regular. That's a saving of USD 1238.43 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 States?
The home charging rate used here is USD 0.18/kWh. Public DC fast charging is estimated at USD 0.64/kWh. Rates may vary by charger operator and subscription plan.
Which EV is most efficient for highway driving in United States?
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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