Fuel Cost Comparison Calculator: Canada

At Ontario's average residential electricity rate of approximately $0.13/kWh, a typical EV consuming 17 kWh/100km driven 20,000 km per year costs about $442 annually. That is roughly 75-80% less than fuelling a comparable gas vehicle at current pump prices.

L/100km (litres per 100 kilometres) is Canada's standard fuel consumption rating. To calculate annual fuel cost: multiply L/100km by your annual distance in km, divide by 100, then multiply by the price per litre. For example, a vehicle rated at 8.0 L/100km driven 20,000 km at $1.55/L costs $2,480 per year in fuel.

Hybrids typically consume 40-50% less fuel than their gas equivalents. For example, switching from a gas RAV4 to a RAV4 Hybrid saves approximately $806 per year at $1.55/L over 20,000 km. Over five years that adds up to more than $4,000 in fuel savings alone.

NRCan combined ratings use a standardized 5-cycle testing method that blends city and highway driving. Real-world consumption can vary 10-20% depending on driving habits, climate, terrain, and vehicle load. Cold Canadian winters tend to increase consumption, especially for EVs. The ratings are best used for comparing vehicles against each other under the same testing conditions.

This calculator focuses strictly on fuel and electricity costs. EVs typically have lower maintenance costs because they have fewer moving parts, no oil changes, and regenerative braking reduces brake wear. A full cost-of-ownership comparison should also factor in purchase price, insurance, maintenance, depreciation, and any applicable rebates.