EV Economics 101

What does it cost to fuel an electric vehicle vs gas?

How do EV charging costs compare to gasoline prices in the Kansas City region? We track current Midwest fuel prices and residential electricity rates to compare the cost of driving a typical gas vehicle versus a typical EV.

Price of Gas

$4.12/Gal

Updated May 31st, 2026

Price of Electricity

$0.14/kWh

Updated May 31st, 2026

Gas Cost Per 100 Miles

$16.16

Updated May 31st, 2026

EV Cost Per 100 Miles

$4.32

Updated May 31st, 2026

*Gas price based on Midwest average. Electricity rate based on averaged KS & MO residential electricity rates (home charging). Cost per 100 mile estimates based on typical gas vehicle efficiency of 25 MPG, and typical electric vehicle efficiency of 30 kWh per 100 miles. 

Cost to Drive 100 Miles: Gas vs EV

How much can I save on my monthly commute?

Based on 1,000 miles of monthly driving, here’s how the estimated cost of fueling a typical gas vehicle compares to charging a typical EV at home using current regional energy prices.

Monthly Gas Cost

$158.44

Updated May 31st, 2026

Monthly EV Cost

$43.17

Updated May 31st, 2026

Monthly Savings

$115.27

Updated May 31st, 2026

*Gas price based on Midwest average. Electricity rate based on averaged KS & MO residential electricity rates (home charging). Cost per 100 mile estimates based on typical gas vehicle efficiency of 25 MPG, and typical electric vehicle efficiency of 30 kWh per 100 miles. 

Monthly Commute Savings: 1,000 Miles

How much maintenance do electric vehicles require?

Because electric vehicles have fewer moving parts and no gasoline engine, they generally require less routine maintenance than traditional gas-powered vehicles. But they do still need regular service like tire rotations, windshield wiper replacements, cabin air filters, and occasional brake maintenance.

no-oil-changes

No Oil Changes

One of the biggest differences with EV ownership is the absence of engine oil changes. Since electric vehicles do not use internal combustion engines, there’s no motor oil, oil filter, spark plugs, or emissions system components that require regular replacement.

moving-parts

Fewer Moving Parts

Gasoline vehicles contain hundreds of moving engine and transmission components operating under high heat and pressure. EV drivetrains are mechanically simpler, with electric motors that typically require far less routine servicing over time.

Regenerative Braking

Reduced Brake Wear

Many EVs use regenerative braking, which helps slow the vehicle while recovering energy back into the battery. Because the mechanical brakes are used less aggressively during everyday driving, brake pads and rotors may last longer than those on many gas vehicles.

Tire Rotation Icon

Tires Still Matter

Like all vehicles, EVs still require regular tire maintenance. Tire rotations, alignment checks, and maintaining proper tire pressure remain important for efficiency, handling, and tire life. Some EVs may wear tires slightly faster due to instant torque and heavier battery weight.

EV Battery

What about the Batteries?

EV batteries are designed with thermal management systems that help regulate temperature and support long-term battery health. Most modern EV batteries are engineered to last many years, and many manufacturers include long battery warranties.