EV vs Petrol Comparison
EV vs Petrol Cost: Los Angeles → San Jose
How much cheaper is an electric vehicle compared to petrol on this 590 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 | 93.7 kWh | USD 16.53 | USD 59.94 | USD 204.23 saved |
| Tesla Model 3 | 84.3 kWh | USD 14.88 | USD 53.94 | USD 205.88 saved |
| Volvo XC40 Recharge | 140.5 kWh | USD 24.79 | USD 89.90 | USD 195.96 saved |
| MG4 | 86.8 kWh | USD 15.31 | USD 55.53 | USD 205.44 saved |
| BMW iX3 | 109.3 kWh | USD 19.28 | USD 69.93 | USD 201.47 saved |
| Petrol Car (Regular) | 49.2 L | USD 220.76 | — | reference |
| Petrol Van (Diesel) | 65.6 L | USD 369.67 | — | reference |
DC Fast Charging Time
Time to recharge the energy used for this 590 km route at DC fast charge speed.
United States EV Electricity Rates
Rates used in the calculations above.
EV Questions: Los Angeles to San Jose
Is an EV cheaper than petrol for Los Angeles to San Jose?
Yes, on home charging, the best EV option for this 590 km route costs approximately USD 14.88, compared to USD 220.76 for a petrol car on Regular. That's a saving of USD 205.88 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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