How to Calculate Your Own EV Charging Costs
Knowing how much it costs to charge your EV can help you budget and compare electricity tariffs.
The calculation is simple.
Step 1: Find Your Battery Size
EV battery capacity is measured in kWh (kilowatt-hours).
Common battery sizes include:
| Battery Size | Typical Vehicle Type |
| 20-40kWh | Smaller EV's |
| 50-70kWh | Family EV's |
| 70+kWh | Long-range EV's |
You can find your battery size in your vehicle handbook or manufacturer's specifications.
Related Reading:
Step 2: Find Your Electricity Price
Check your electricity bill for your price per kWh.
Examples:
Step 3: Use the Formula
Example:
- 60kWh battery
- 25p per kWh (£0.25)
Calculation:
60 × £0.25 = £15
A full charge would cost approximately £15.
Don't Forget Charging Losses
Some energy is lost during charging.
For a more realistic estimate, add around 10%.
Example:
£15 × 1.10 = £16.50
How to Calculate Cost Per Mile
Most EVs travel between 3 and 5 miles for every kWh used.
Use this formula:
Electricity Price ÷ Miles per kWh = Cost Per Mile
Example:
- Electricity price = 25p per kWh
- Efficiency = 4 miles per kWh
25 ÷ 4 = 6.25p per mile
Quick Example Table
| Battery Size | 10p/kWh | 25p/kWh |
|---|---|---|
| 40kWh | £4 | £10 |
| 60kWh | £6 | £15 |
| 80kWh | £8 | £20 |
Figures shown before charging losses.
Key Takeaway
To estimate your EV charging cost:
- Find your battery size.
- Find your electricity rate.
- Multiply the two numbers.
- Add around 10% for charging losses.
That's all you need to calculate your EV charging costs at home.
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