Petrol, Diesel, or Electric: What’s Best in 2025?

Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining attention in South Africa, with sales growing over 80% annually since 2023. EVs offer 76% lower running costs per kilometer compared to petrol cars and have fewer maintenance needs. However, they come with higher upfront costs, starting at $26,000, while petrol cars are priced as low as $13,000. Diesel vehicles remain a strong choice for long-distance travel due to their fuel efficiency on highways.

Key points to consider:

• Fuel Costs: EVs are cheaper to operate ($0.125 per mile vs. $0.232 for diesel).
• Infrastructure: South Africa has over 500 public EV chargers, but rural areas still face challenges.
• Environmental Impact: EVs produce no direct emissions, but their impact depends on the electricity source.
• Government Incentives: A 150% tax deduction for EV production starts in 2026, boosting local manufacturing.

Quick Comparison

Your choice depends on your budget, driving habits, and access to charging infrastructure. EVs are ideal for city drivers seeking lower running costs, while petrol and diesel remain practical for rural or long-distance use.

PETROL vs DIESEL (vs ELECTRIC CAR!) – which is REALLY cheaper? | What Car?

Fuel Costs and Running Expenses

When looking at the three powertrain options, fuel and electricity costs stand out as one of the biggest ongoing expenses for vehicle owners. To put things into perspective, current fuel prices in South Africa show 93-octane petrol costing about $1.34 per liter inland, while wholesale diesel runs around $1.19 per liter inland. By July 2025, these prices are expected to climb, with 95 unleaded petrol reaching roughly $1.30 per liter in coastal areas and $1.35 per liter inland. Diesel prices are forecasted at about $1.15 per liter along the coast and $1.19 inland. These increases stem from global oil market instability and domestic tax hikes, with fuel taxes now making up around $0.39 per liter of petrol.

On the other hand, electric vehicles (EVs) offer much lower operational costs. For instance, a Volkswagen ID.3 EV costs approximately $0.125 per mile to drive, compared to a diesel-powered Ford Focus, which costs about $0.232 per mile. When you crunch the numbers, this means annual fuel expenses of roughly $978 for the EV versus $1,817 for the diesel car. These savings extend beyond fuel, as EVs also come with lower maintenance costs, making them increasingly appealing to drivers.

Maintenance is another area where EVs shine. They typically cost about half as much to service and repair compared to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, leading to annual savings of $750 to $1,500. On average, EV servicing costs around $207, compared to $257 for ICE vehicles. This cost advantage comes from the simpler design of EVs – there’s no need for oil changes, valve adjustments, spark plug replacements, or fuel system repairs. Regenerative braking also prolongs the life of brake pads and rotors. However, the heavier weight of EV battery packs can result in faster tire wear.

Long-term costs, such as battery replacement, also play a role in the overall value of EVs. Replacing an EV battery costs around $9,068, but advancements in battery technology are expected to bring these costs down in the future. Plus, EV batteries are built to last, often maintaining solid performance for up to 20 years or 186,000 miles. Many manufacturers, like RIZON, back their batteries with warranties of 8 years or 185,000 miles for 2025 models.

Looking ahead, the financial edge of EVs is expected to grow. Scheduled maintenance costs for ICE vehicles average about 10.1 cents per mile, while EVs come in at just 6.1 cents per mile – a nearly 40% difference. Over a vehicle’s lifetime, EV maintenance expenses are typically about 30% lower than those of petrol vehicles.

That said, South Africa’s electricity supply adds some complexity. In 2024, roughly 83% of the country’s electricity came from fossil fuels, meaning EV charging costs are tied to coal and gas prices. However, government initiatives to reach 33% renewable electricity by 2030 and plans to retire seven coal-fired power plants by 2032 could help stabilize electricity costs for EV owners in the long term.

Next, we’ll explore how factors like environmental impact and infrastructure shape the practicality of each option.

Environmental Impact and Emissions

The environmental footprint of petrol, diesel, and electric vehicles differs significantly. South Africa, as the largest greenhouse gas emitter in Africa, produced a staggering 405 million tonnes of CO₂ in 2022. The country also leads globally in transport-related carbon emissions, averaging 4.89 kg of CO₂ per journey.

When it comes to emissions, the numbers speak for themselves. Burning a liter of petrol releases about 2.3 kg of CO₂, while diesel produces roughly 2.7 kg per liter. Diesel SUVs, in particular, emitted 181 grams of CO₂ per kilometer in 2022 .

Electric vehicles (EVs), on the other hand, produce no direct emissions. However, their overall environmental impact depends heavily on the energy source used for charging. In South Africa, where the electricity grid still relies heavily on fossil fuels, the shift to cleaner energy is crucial.

South Africa’s Renewable Energy Progress

The country is making strides in transitioning to renewable energy. By the end of 2023, South Africa had installed 7.2 GW of solar PV and 3.6 GW of onshore wind capacity. Between 2019 and 2023, the share of wind and solar in electricity generation more than doubled, rising from 4.5% to 11.6% .

A closer look at the renewable energy mix reveals that wind contributes 42%, hydro 31%, solar PV 20.6%, and solar thermal 6.2%. The solar PV market, in particular, is set to expand, with projections showing growth from 6.05 GW in 2024 to 10.27 GW by 2029, reflecting an annual growth rate of 11.17%. This cleaner energy base strengthens the case for electric vehicles.

"By 2030, renewable energy will power 41% of South Africa’s electricity grid."

• Avesh Padayachee, CEO, Fibon Energy

Government Policies and Incentives

South Africa’s government is taking active steps to reduce emissions. In 2024, President Ramaphosa signed the Climate Change Bill into law, which mandates sector-specific emission targets every five years and introduces carbon budgets for large greenhouse gas emitters. Additionally, the carbon tax increased from R159 to R190 per tonne of CO₂ in February 2024, a 16% rise aimed at promoting cleaner vehicle options and reducing emissions.

Hybrid vehicles have emerged as a promising transitional technology. In 2022, they emitted significantly fewer grams of CO₂ equivalents per passenger kilometer compared to petrol and diesel vehicles across all body types.

To further accelerate the adoption of cleaner vehicles, the government is exploring financial incentives. Discussions include tax rebates or subsidies for electric vehicle purchases. Moreover, a 150% tax incentive has been legislated to encourage car manufacturers to produce EVs in South Africa between 2026 and 2036 .

"It makes no sense to advocate for decarbonisation while carbon-heavy vehicles remain cheaper than zero-emission EVs."

• Joubert Roux, Executive Chairman of Charge

Electric Vehicle Adoption on the Rise

The shift toward EVs is gaining momentum. Sales of new energy vehicles surged by 82.7% in the first quarter of 2024, with over 3,000 units sold compared to 1,665 in the same period in 2023. While EVs still accounted for just 0.24% of new vehicle sales in 2024, the growth trend is unmistakable.

As South Africa’s grid continues its transition to renewable energy, the environmental benefits of EVs will grow even stronger. The Integrated Resource Plan aims to add 26 GW of new renewable capacity by 2030, further solidifying the case for cleaner transportation.

Infrastructure and Practicality

South Africa’s infrastructure for vehicles is in a state of transformation, with traditional fuel stations holding strong while the electric vehicle (EV) charging network grows to meet increasing demand.

Traditional Fuel Infrastructure: Steady, with Modern Upgrades

BP operates around 500 fuel stations across the country, providing unmatched convenience by enabling drivers to refuel in just about 5 minutes [38,42]. In May 2025, BP South Africa announced a major upgrade to its service stations, including plans for 40 new retail sites that will feature EV charging options and low-carbon battery rental services [7,39]. Many of these traditional stations are evolving into multi-purpose hubs, offering amenities like coffee shops, Wi-Fi, and rest areas through partnerships with well-known retail brands [38,41].

Electric Vehicle Charging: Expanding but Facing Challenges

The EV charging network in South Africa is growing at an impressive pace. By June 2025, over 500 public chargers were in operation, with a ratio of one charger for every seven EVs. GridCars leads the charge with more than 450 charging points, covering routes like the Johannesburg-to-Cape Town corridor. Meanwhile, Rubicon/ChargePocket operates over 110 chargers and plans to increase this to 250 by the end of 2025.

Key players, including Mercedes-Benz, the Free State government, and Zero Carbon Charge, are making significant investments in these networks. Notably, Zero Carbon Charge is committing R9.4 billion to develop the KZN Network, which will feature 31 stations catering to various electric vehicle types, from passenger cars to trucks. These investments are setting the stage for a broader conversation about EV charging times and convenience.

Charging Times: A Matter of Perspective

While traditional vehicles can refuel in about 5 minutes, EV charging times depend on battery size and the type of charger used. Here’s a breakdown of charging durations:

Although charging takes longer than refueling, most EV drivers charge their vehicles during routine activities, such as at home or work, making the process less disruptive [44,45]. As Bill Woodcock puts it:

"An electric vehicle charges while you’re parked, typically while you’re asleep. So the human time required to charge an electric vehicle is about five seconds to plug in each time you park at a charger, and five seconds to unplug when you leave."

Urban vs. Rural Infrastructure Differences

The availability of charging and fuel infrastructure varies between urban and rural areas. Urban centers enjoy denser networks of charging stations and fuel options, while rural regions face more limited resources. To address this, some rural fuel stations are diversifying their offerings with retail services, mechanical support, and even tourism amenities [38,41]. Zero Carbon Charge is also working to bridge this gap by deploying solar-powered, off-grid fast chargers every 150 kilometers along national roads.

Overcoming Challenges

Despite the growth, there are hurdles to overcome, including load shedding, grid limitations, and the high costs of installing EV charging stations – ranging from R500,000 to R2 million per station. However, the industry is adapting. Corporate plug-in programs and government incentives, set to roll out in 2026, are expected to drive expansion. The EV charging network is projected to grow by about 20% annually through 2029.

As Winstone Jordaan, Director of GridCars, explains:

"We need about 100,000 vehicles on the road before any of us will see real profitability. But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t build the foundation now."

For South Africans, who drive an average of 44 kilometers daily, the current infrastructure supports all vehicle types, though the level of convenience and accessibility continues to vary by location.

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Lifestyle and Ownership Factors

When it comes to choosing between petrol, diesel, and electric vehicles in 2025, lifestyle and ownership considerations play a big role. Each option aligns with specific driving habits, budgets, and personal preferences.

Purchase Costs: A Reality Check

The upfront cost is a major factor for most buyers. Entry-level petrol cars like the Suzuki Celerio or Toyota Vitz are priced under $13,000. In contrast, the most affordable electric car, the Dayun S5 Standard, starts at about $26,000. This price gap makes EVs less accessible to many, despite their lower running costs.

Even when comparing similar models, EVs remain pricier. For instance, the Mini Cooper Electric costs about $13,500 more than its petrol counterpart, while the Mini Countryman Electric comes with a $22,700 premium over its petrol version. Similarly, the Volvo XC40 Electric is roughly $17,300 more expensive than the hybrid model.

Hybrids sit in the middle in terms of cost. The Toyota Corolla Hatch Hybrid is priced at approximately $34,800. However, hybrids also carry a price bump. For example, the Chery Tiggo Cross Hybrid costs around $2,600 more, and the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid adds about $5,200 compared to their petrol versions. These price differences highlight why EV running cost savings are so critical for many buyers.

Running Costs: Where EVs Excel

Though EVs come with higher sticker prices, their daily operating costs are significantly lower. Charging an electric vehicle for 186 miles costs about $5.20, while covering the same distance in a petrol car costs roughly $32.50.

For commercial users, these savings are even more striking. The JAC N55 EV truck, priced at about $54,200, costs just $13 for a full charge, offering a range of around 130 miles. While public charging is slightly more expensive – ranging from $0.10 to $0.23 per kWh – it usually remains cheaper than fueling with petrol or diesel.

Government Incentives: Closing the Gap

Governments are stepping in to make EVs more appealing. Incentives include full VAT exemptions, carbon tax and customs duty breaks, and a $65 million investment to strengthen the local EV industry. Businesses involved in EV research and development can also benefit from tax credits.

"The purpose of the incentive is to enhance the local production and assembly of new-energy vehicles, batteries and projects focused on operational efficiency and competitiveness in new manufacturing projects."

These measures aim to make EVs more affordable and encourage their adoption.

Use Case Suitability: Matching Cars to Lifestyles

Urban drivers often lean toward hybrids and EVs, which perform efficiently at lower speeds and recapture energy during braking. EVs, in particular, shine in city environments thanks to their low running costs, making them ideal for daily commutes.

For long-distance travel, diesel vehicles often make more sense. Diesel engines offer better power and torque at lower revs, which translates to greater efficiency on highways. While EV charging networks are growing, they are still concentrated in urban areas, which can pose challenges for frequent long-distance trips.

Commercial users need to evaluate their specific needs. For businesses with predictable urban routes and access to overnight charging, EVs like the JAC N55 truck can be a cost-effective option. However, companies requiring long-haul capabilities may still prefer diesel vehicles.

Resale Values and Long-Term Ownership

EV batteries generally last 8 to 10 years, with replacement costs hovering around $6,500 – a figure expected to drop as technology evolves. EVs also have fewer moving parts, leading to lower maintenance costs. In contrast, hybrids can be pricier to service due to their dual-engine systems. Petrol and diesel vehicles benefit from established service networks, which can simplify long-term maintenance planning.

Making the Right Choice

"Overall, once drivers understand and accept these differences, electric vehicles quickly become the preferred choice, especially for city commutes and regular use."

Pros and Cons

When choosing between vehicle types, it’s essential to weigh the trade-offs in cost, efficiency, and practicality. Here’s a breakdown of the main strengths and weaknesses of each option.

Electric Vehicles: The Efficiency Leaders

Electric vehicles (EVs) stand out for their efficiency, using 3 to 5 times less energy per mile compared to gasoline or diesel engines. This translates to significant savings on running costs. On average, EV owners spend about $485 annually on fueling, compared to $1,117 for gasoline vehicles. Additionally, maintenance costs for EVs are roughly 29% lower over five years.

However, the upfront cost of an EV can be daunting, with prices ranging from $48,000 to $50,873. In contrast, a medium-sized gasoline car costs about $21,964. While battery replacements are rare – occurring in only about 2.5% of vehicles – if needed, they can cost around $7,235.

Gasoline Vehicles: The Familiar Choice

Gasoline vehicles remain a popular option due to their lower initial cost and well-established refueling and maintenance infrastructure. However, they fall short in efficiency, with energy conversion rates of just 16–25%. They also produce high emissions, averaging about 235 g CO₂e per kilometer.

Diesel Vehicles: The Long-Distance Option

Diesel vehicles excel in highway fuel economy and provide strong torque, making them ideal for long-distance travel or commercial use. However, like gasoline cars, they struggle with lower efficiency and emit approximately 234 g CO₂e per kilometer.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Summary

With ongoing improvements in battery technology and robust government incentives, EVs are becoming more practical for everyday use. For urban drivers, the lower running and maintenance costs of EVs often outweigh the higher initial investment. However, for rural or long-distance drivers, gasoline or diesel vehicles may remain the preferred option until charging infrastructure becomes more widespread.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your driving habits, budget, and openness to newer technologies. While each type has its place, the shift toward EVs is becoming more apparent for most daily driving needs.

Conclusion: Choosing Your Vehicle for 2025

When it comes to picking the right vehicle, your decision should hinge on your needs, budget, and driving habits.

For city dwellers and those aiming to cut down on running costs, electric vehicles (EVs) are an appealing choice. While their upfront price tag is higher, they offer 76% lower operating costs per kilometer compared to petrol vehicles. As Winstone Jordaan, director at Gridcars, points out:

"The choice to have an EV is a choice unlike any other, and on the surface, EVs are more expensive but if you look at operating costs then EVs become much cheaper in the long run."

The EV charging infrastructure has grown significantly to meet current demand. Rubicon, for example, reported a tenfold increase in revenue from charging stations between Q1 2023 and Q3 2024, along with a 157% rise in charging sessions. Addressing concerns about charging accessibility, Jordaan reassures:

"This notion that you will struggle to find a charger is just not true, the country currently has the infrastructure to support the current load of EVs on the market."

However, for those living outside urban areas or frequently traveling long distances, petrol and diesel vehicles remain practical options – at least until EV charging networks expand further. Rising fuel prices continue to weigh on rural and long-distance drivers.

Government policies are also shaping the automotive future. A $54.27 million investment and a 150% tax deduction for EV manufacturing, starting in March 2026, highlight strong support for EV adoption. Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana emphasized this shift:

"To encourage production of EVs in South Africa, the government will introduce an investment allowance for new investments, beginning 1 March 2026."

Market trends further reflect this transition. As of June 2023, new energy vehicles made up 1.2% of South African sales, with sales climbing 47.1% year-over-year. Notably, 502 battery electric vehicles were sold in the first half of 2023 – matching the total sold in all of 2022.

Ultimately, your choice should factor in daily mileage, access to charging, and the balance between upfront costs and long-term savings. For urban drivers with moderate commutes, the financial and environmental perks of EVs often outweigh their higher initial cost. On the other hand, frequent long-distance travelers may find petrol or diesel vehicles more practical for now.

The automotive industry is shifting gears. With 85% of South Africans prioritizing safety features and 80% focusing on fuel consumption when buying vehicles, it’s clear that preferences are evolving. As the market adapts to these priorities, choosing a vehicle that fits your lifestyle today while aligning with future trends is key.

FAQs

How do the long-term maintenance costs of electric vehicles compare to those of gas and diesel cars?

Over time, electric vehicles (EVs) tend to be cheaper to maintain than traditional gas or diesel cars. Why? EVs have fewer moving parts, which means less wear and tear and, ultimately, lower maintenance costs. On average, owning an EV costs about $0.06 per mile in maintenance, while gas-powered cars average around $0.10 per mile.

What’s more, EVs often last longer and require fewer major repairs, saving owners $300–$400 per year on upkeep. The durability of EV batteries and the straightforward design of electric drivetrains play a big role in these savings, making EVs a smart, cost-effective option in the long run.

What are the environmental benefits of switching to electric vehicles in South Africa, given the current state of the energy grid?

Switching to electric vehicles (EVs) in South Africa offers a promising way to reduce environmental harm, even though the country’s energy grid is still heavily dependent on coal, a major source of carbon emissions. As South Africa gradually shifts to cleaner energy sources, the carbon footprint of EVs will shrink, making them an increasingly eco-conscious option in the years ahead.

Beyond cutting greenhouse gas emissions over time, EVs can also make a noticeable difference in local air quality by eliminating harmful tailpipe pollutants. They even have the potential to support renewable energy efforts by serving as energy storage solutions, helping stabilize the grid as more sustainable energy sources come online. While the overall environmental benefits hinge on how quickly the grid moves toward cleaner energy, embracing EVs today is a step in the right direction for a more sustainable future.

What is the South African government doing to support electric vehicles, and are there any incentives for buyers or manufacturers?

The South African government is making bold moves to promote electric vehicles (EVs) with a range of incentives. For manufacturers, there’s a 150% tax deduction available for investments in EV production assets, including machinery and facilities. On top of that, around $54 million has been set aside to boost local EV and battery production. This funding is designed to attract international investors and strengthen the country’s EV industry.

For everyday consumers, the government has introduced a full VAT exemption on EV purchases, significantly lowering their cost. These initiatives, supported by new legislation passed in late 2024, aim to ramp up domestic manufacturing, make EVs more accessible, and speed up South Africa’s shift toward cleaner transportation options.

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