AutoClair index
Electric-car energy cost index — United States
Updated August 4, 2026 · 6 min read
This index applies the market's reference energy prices to three driving profiles. It isolates energy: vehicle price, financing, insurance, maintenance, taxes and resale still need a separate comparison.
Central result
At 10,000 mi per year, the scenario estimates about $440 for electricity versus $1,180 for gasoline, an annual energy-only difference of $730 in the EV's favor.
Three driving profiles
Results are rounded planning estimates. Replace prices and consumption with your observations before making a decision.
| Annual mileage | Electric | Gasoline | Annual difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6,000 mi | $270 | $710 | $440 |
| 10,000 mi | $440 | $1,180 | $730 |
| 15,000 mi | $660 | $1,760 | $1,100 |
Published assumptions
| Published assumptions | Planning value |
|---|---|
| Home electricity | $0.17/kWh |
| Gasoline | $4.0/gal |
| Electric consumption | 26 kWh/100mi |
| Gasoline economy | 34 MPG |
Calculation method
Electric = miles × electric consumption ÷ 100 × kWh price
Gasoline = miles ÷ MPG × price per gallon
Sources and method
Run the numbers for your own project
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