NIO’s analysis shows EVs cost a fraction compared to petrol cars for equivalent mileage

Switching to electric is the more intelligent financial choice

The cost gap between conventional and electric vehicles in the UAE has widened to levels that are forcing a rethink across corporate fleets and private ownership alike. An analysis by NIO MENA reveals just how significant the gap has become.

At current pump prices, a standard petrol vehicle averaging 12 km/litre costs approximately AED 275 to AED 280 to cover 1,000 km. An electric vehicle running on home charging covers the same distance for just AED 45, a saving of more than AED 230 per 1,000 km.

Even using rapidly growing public infrastructure, the economics favour EVs. Public AC charging brings the cost to around AED 120 per 1,000 km, while DC fast charging, the most expensive option, still delivers savings of roughly AED 90 per 1,000 km.

Cost per 1,000 km at current fuel prices are as follows:

Petrol (Super 98): AED 280

EV: Home Charging: AED 45 (84% saving vs. Petrol)

EV: Public AC Charging: AED 120 (57% saving vs. Petrol)

EV: Public DC Fast Charging: AED 180 (36% saving vs. Petrol)

Public charging networks are growing across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and other emirates, reducing range anxiety and making electric vehicles viable for a broader range of use cases outside of private ownership, from last mile delivery to executive transport.

“When running an electric vehicle can save you up to 84% compared to petrol, this is no longer a debate about sustainability preferences. It is a bottom-line decision. The UAE’s policy environment and charging infrastructure have matured to a point where switching to electric is simply the more intelligent financial choice,” assured Mohammad Maktari, CEO, NIO MENA.