Clean Vehicle Comparison
| Battery-Electric | Plug-In Hybrid | Hydrogen Fuel Cell | |
|---|---|---|---|
Fueling | At home and charging stations | At gas stations, home, and charging stations | At hydrogen fueling stations |
Performance | Instant torque, quiet ride | EV performance with gas backup | Like battery-electric cars |
Emissions | Zero tailpipe emissions | Zero on electricity | Zero tailpipe emissions |
Maintenance | Fewer parts, 40–60% lower costs over time* | Similar to gas cars | Require specialized service |
Incentives | State and local incentives | Some state and local incentives | Check with car manufacturer |
* U.S. Department of Energy report
Why Choose a Clean Vehicle
Cost Savings
EVs save money in multiple ways:
- Charging is cheaper - especially with a home charger with off-peak charging times (when electricity costs less) or with solar panels. Also, some incentives come with a free charger or a charging/fueling card.
- Lower maintenance costs - less regular maintenance, far fewer mechanical repairs.
- Incentives - rebates, tax credits and special programs may help reduce the sales price.
Performance
EVs offer a better driving experience:
- Quick acceleration - no delay or gear shifting.
- Smooth ride - easy handling thanks to the low center of gravity.
- Quiet cabin – less noise, more peace.
Environmental Impact
- Battery-electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions.
- Plug-in hybrids offer significant emissions reduction for short daily trips.
- Even when charged from the electrical grid, EVs generate less greenhouse gas pollution than gas cars.
- EV adoption supports cleaner air for California communities.
Charging vs. Fueling
While electricity rates vary, the average price in California is about 32 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh). At this rate, fully charging a Tesla Model Y Standard with a 75-kWh battery would cost about $24 to drive 260 miles. In comparison, fueling a Toyota Camry that gets 33 miles per gallon at $4.70 per gallon would cost $37 to drive the same 260 miles.
That’s about 9 cents per mile for electricity vs. 14 cents for gas.
To compare specific vehicles and their fuel costs side by side, use the federal Fuels Data Center Vehicle Cost Calculator.
“Cost of ownership is way better”
The ease of charging at home, as well as the low electricity rate, makes the cost of ownership way better than your typical internal combustion engine alternative.
Angel
Battery-electric vehicle owner
“It was the right choice for me”
Personally, with the rebates, never having to buy gas, nearly $0 in maintenance and readily available charging at my home, office and via the Plugshare app, it was the right choice for me.
Laurel
Battery-electric vehicle owner
