Electric car costs: What does an electric car really cost?
Are electric cars cheaper than combustion vehicles? Read more here about the costs of purchasing, operating and maintaining electric vehicles.
18.06.2026
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1. Cost comparison – is an electric car really cheaper?
The cost of electric vehicles depends on factors including the model, how you use the vehicle and your place of residence. In general, the following applies:
Comparing the costs of electric cars and combustion vehicles
The following overview provides an example. It is based on averages and estimates (as of June 2024).
| Combustion vehicle | Electric car | |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase price | E.g. CHF 18’365 for a Peugeot 208 | E.g. CHF 30’119 for a Peugeot e-208 |
| Subsidies and grants | No subsidies | Regional differences |
| Service costs per year | depending on the vehicle and use | approx. 20–40% cheaper (source: Energie Schweiz) |
| Energy costs per 100 km | Petrol/Diesel, depending on consumption approx. CHF 10.– to 15.– | Electricity, under CHF 6.– (source: Energie Schweiz) |
| Insurance costs per year | depending on various factors | on average 22% cheaper |
| motor vehicle tax | depending on the canton and engine output | tax-exempt in many cantons |
For mid-range and luxury cars the long-term cost advantages of electric cars are even greater. According to a study by Energie Schweiz the total cost of an SUV with an internal combustion engine is CHF 83’543. For an electric car in the same class, the total cost is CHF 77’469.
How much does an electric car cost per 100 kilometres in Switzerland?
At eco-auto.info, you will find a list of electric cars on the Swiss market. The list contains information on energy consumption, the energy costs for 100’000 kilometres and an environmental assessment.
Update June 2026: Rising fuel prices increase the cost advantage
Since March 2026, fuel prices in Switzerland have risen significantly. The trigger is geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Currently, unleaded 95 costs around 1.88 francs per litre, and diesel 2.10 francs (TCS, June 2026). This further increases the energy costs for combustion vehicles. The decision in favour of an electric car is becoming even more attractive financially – especially for frequent drivers who can charge regularly at home.
Do you drive a car with a combustion engine? If so, you can view the current petrol prices throughout Switzerland with our petrol price comparison.
2. Purchase costs and financing of electric cars
According to a study by Energie Schweiz certain electric cars are currently up to 20% more expensive than combustion vehicles. The However, the prices of electric cars are steadily falling. This is due, for example, to technological advances and cheaper battery prices.
There are already affordable electric cars available for under 30’000 francs (list not exhaustive):
| Dacia Spring | CHF 14’400 |
|---|---|
| Citroën ë-C3 | CHF 15’690 |
| Renault Twingo Equilibre | CHF 17’380 |
| JAC e-S2 | CHF 17’689 |
| Smart Fortwo | CHF 23’500 |
| VW UP e-up! | CHF 25’650 |
When you buy an electric car, you have the same financing options as for petrol or diesel cars. The decision depends on your financial situation and how you want to use the vehicle.
Here, Comparis highlights the pros and cons of different financing solutions .
3. Grants and subsidies for electric cars
The subsidisation of electric cars in Switzerland is regulated by the canton and in some cases the commune: Some cantons offer subsidies when buying a car. Others grant tax benefits or assist in the construction of charging stations.
At Swiss eMobility, you can find an overview of the subsidies for electromobility at different locations. You can also obtain information from your responsible Road Traffic Office.
When taking out car insurance you currently benefit from various discounts with an electric car, depending on the insurer.
Do I pay less tax for an electric car?
This depends on where you live: most cantons offer a bonus of 25–75% for electric cars or vehicles with low CO₂ emissions. In some cantons, electric cars are even completely exempt from tax.
Others, on the other hand, offer no eco bonus. Appenzell Ausserrhoden even taxes electric cars higher than combustion vehicles. Here you will find more information about cantonal motor vehicle taxes.
4. Depreciation of electric cars
For a long time, the depreciation of electric cars was significantly higher than for vehicles with an internal combustion engine. New figures show: the residual values of electric cars have caught up with petrol and diesel vehicles in recent years.
5. Service costs for an electric car
Service costs are between 20–40% lower for electric vehicles than for combustion cars (Source: Energie Schweiz). This is because they contain far fewer moving parts: around 200 instead of 2,000. No oil changes are needed for an electric car. However, some maintenance work, especially on the battery, leads to higher costs for the electric vehicle.
Regular vehicle servicing is also necessary for electric cars: software updates are important, tyres, brakes and brake fluid, steering and suspension must be checked, as well as the condition of the battery. How often a service is required depends on factors including the manufacturer. In most cases, one service every two years is enough.
You can have ordinary maintenance work carried out in the garage of your choice. However, for the repair or maintenance of the high-voltage system or specific electric car components, you should visit a specialised workshop. Only these specialists have the necessary equipment and appropriately trained personnel.
6. How long do batteries last for electric cars and how much do they cost to replace?
The high-voltage battery of an electric car lasts, depending on use, between 12 and 20 years. The manufacturer’s warranty is usually shorter. It is often between eight and 10 years. The costs for repairs are typically between 1,000 and 2,000 francs, plus labour costs. However, repairs are rarely necessary.
A complete replacement of the battery is much more expensive: a new high-voltage battery costs around 6,000 francs for smaller cars, but you should usually expect costs between 10,000 and 20,000 francs to pay. Manufacturers therefore usually offer a warranty of eight to 10 years on the electric car battery.
7. How much does it cost to insure an electric car?
You can also save money on insurance with an electric motor: insurance costs are up to 22% cheaper than for comparable petrol or diesel vehicles. However, check the insurance terms and conditions carefully, especially with regard to additional cover for the battery and charging station.
8. Running costs for an electric car
Electric cars are attractive thanks to their lower running costs: The cost per 100 kilometres is under six francs for electricity (as of May 2024), compared to 10 to 15 francs for petrol or diesel. As a result, electric cars are not only more environmentally friendly, but also more cost-efficient in the long term.
How much does it cost to charge an electric car?
The cost varies depending on electricity prices as well as where and when you charge your vehicle.
How much does it cost to charge an electric car at home?
The cheapest option is less than six francs per 100 kilometres, which is a Wallbox at home.
With a solar installation, you can even get the electricity for free. Although the initial investment is slightly higher, it’s worth it in the long term. Some cantons or communes offer you financial support to install your own charging station.
How much does it cost to charge an electric car at a public charging station?
At public charging stations the price is based on the consumption per kilowatt hour as well as the starting and parking fees. The price therefore differs depending on the output of the charging station, the car and cable as well as the size of the battery. Fast-charging stations are more expensive than slower stations: according to TCS, you usually pay for 250 to 300 kilometres between 30 and 40 francs.
Some companies, supermarkets or hotels provide their customers and employees with free charging facilities Bear in mind that some charging stations require special charging cards or memberships.
Tip: At Energie Schweiz you can find an overview of all charging stations in Switzerland, and on gratis-laden.com free charging stations are listed.
Range and use
With a full charge you can drive with most electric cars between 370 and 470 kilometres. This is more than enough for most people’s daily needs. Before buying, check the manufacturer’s range specifications and compare them with your own needs. And: keep in mind that the range can be significantly lower in winter can be significantly lower.
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This article was first published on 27.06.2024
