How much does it cost to drive 100 km in an electric car is a question every driver faces in 2026 when choosing between a traditional internal combustion engine and a modern EV powertrain. However, the answer is not one-dimensional, as the operating cost of an electric vehicle depends on many variables: from the power source and energy tariff to driving style and ambient temperature. In an era of dynamically changing energy prices in European markets, accurately calculating fuel expenses has become a key element of household budget planning. In this article, we will break down the costs, compare home charging with public fast-charging stations, and show you how to realistically reduce your electric car’s operating costs to an absolute minimum.
Home charging – the cheapest way to drive
For most users, the basis for calculations is charging from a home outlet or a wallbox. Assuming an average energy consumption for a modern C/D segment car of 18 kWh per 100 km, and using a night tariff (G12 or G12w), the cost of driving 100 km can be shockingly low. In 2026, by optimizing charging times, we can achieve figures that diesel owners can only dream of. It is precisely this home infrastructure that makes electromobility economically unbeatable.
Public charging stations and the driver’s wallet
The situation changes when we hit the road and have to use fast DC chargers (High Power Charging). Here, the price per 1 kWh is significantly higher due to infrastructure costs, connection power, and operator margins. However, even here there is a huge price spread. By using manufacturer subscriptions or roaming cards, the cost of driving 100 km in an electric car on the highway can still be lower than in a combustion engine car, provided we choose charging points wisely. The key is to avoid ad-hoc charging without any discounts, which is the most expensive option possible.
Photovoltaics, or driving for “free”
One cannot talk about the costs of driving 100 km in an electric car without mentioning prosumers. Having a photovoltaic installation combined with an energy storage system drastically changes the equation. On sunny days, thanks to self-consumption, the cost of energy needed to cover 100 km drops almost to zero (excluding the amortization cost of the installation). This is the highest level of energy independence, which turns the car into a mobile storage unit for surplus energy produced from the roof.
Winter and energy consumption – what do you need to know?
It is worth being honest: costs rise in winter. Low temperatures affect cell chemistry and require cabin heating, which increases average energy consumption from 18 kWh to, for example, 24-26 kWh per 100 km. Even with higher consumption, an electric car remains cheaper to operate than a combustion car, which also burns more in winter and takes longer for its engine to reach operating temperature. Using a heat pump in an electric car allows you to reduce this “winter tax” and keep expenses at a reasonable level.
Comparison: Electric vs Diesel vs Gasoline
Comparing current liquid fuel prices with electricity prices, the difference becomes visible to the naked eye. While a modern diesel will burn an average of 6 liters of fuel per 100 km (which at prices around 7-8 PLN gives 42-48 PLN), an electric car charged at home will use electricity worth about 15-20 PLN. Savings of 25-30 PLN for every 100 km generate huge amounts on an annual scale. With a mileage of 20,000 km per year, you keep up to 6,000 PLN in pure profit in your pocket, which after a few years can finance upgrading to a newer model.
Driving style and its impact on economy
Just like in a combustion car, a “heavy foot” costs money. However, in an electric car, we have a powerful tool in the form of recuperation. Skillful use of electric motor braking allows you to recover some energy every time you slow down, which in city traffic can lower average consumption by up to 15-20%. A conscious EV driver is one who can anticipate road situations and smoothly manage the flow of electrons, making driving even cheaper.
Hidden savings – service and maintenance
When talking about how much it costs to drive 100 km in an electric car, we often forget about the lack of oil changes, fuel filters, timing belts, or less wear on brake pads thanks to recuperation. These costs are not visible on the charger meter, but they add up to the total cost of ownership (TCO). An electric car is not just cheaper “electricity instead of fuel”; it is primarily fewer visits to the mechanic and a simpler design that breaks down less often.
Is it worth it?
Analyzing all the data, the answer is clear: electromobility in 2026 is the most economical way of getting around for people who have access to their own charging point or know how to consciously use public infrastructure. The difference in costs between electricity and traditional fuel is large enough to compensate for the higher purchase price of the vehicle in an increasingly shorter time. Remember that the key to success is matching the energy tariff to your needs and investing in a high-quality wallbox that will ensure safe and optimal charging in the comfort of your home. Conscious energy management, choosing the right moments to top up, and taking care of aerodynamics and tire pressure are simple steps that will make your driving bills the envy of combustion car owners, while you enjoy a modern and ecological form of transport without any financial compromises for many years.