EV and Hybrid Costs: The Myths That Won’t Die

There’s a lot of noise out there about what it “really” costs to own an EV or a hybrid.

Most of it? Outdated, recycled, or just plain wrong.

Here’s the our take—clear, direct, and focused on what actually matters to drivers and families.

Myth 1: EVs and Hybrids Are Always More Expensive Than Petrol Cars

Yes, the sticker price on a brand-new EV or hybrid can be higher. But that’s only half the story. Battery prices are dropping fast, and used EVs are now flooding the market—some are even cheaper than their petrol equivalents. The price gap for hybrids is shrinking too. Upgrading a popular SUV to a hybrid can cost as little as $800, and you’ll save more than that in fuel within a few years.

Myth 2: You’ll Pay a Fortune for Maintenance

This one’s persistent—and wrong. EVs and hybrids are actually cheaper to maintain than petrol cars. Why? Fewer moving parts, no oil changes, and less brake wear thanks to regenerative braking. Studies show EVs can cost two to three times less to service, and hybrids often cost less to maintain over their lifetime than a regular car.

Myth 3: Hybrid and EV Batteries Need Replacing Every Few Years

No, you won’t be forking out for a new battery every five years. Most EV and hybrid batteries come with 8–10 year warranties, and many last much longer. Yes, battery replacement is expensive if it happens outside warranty, but for most owners, it’s a non-issue. Batteries are getting better, and second-life uses are growing.

Myth 4: Charging and Fuelling Costs Cancel Out the Savings

Let’s be real: charging an EV at home is far cheaper than filling up at the pump—up to 70% less per kilometre. Even with higher electricity prices lately, the long-term trend is downward as renewables grow. Hybrids? They sip fuel, so you’ll visit the bowser less often. Plug-in hybrids can run on electricity for short trips, slashing your fuel bill if you actually plug in.

Myth 5: Hybrids and EVs Are High Maintenance, High Hassle

Nope. Hybrids don’t need special care. Their maintenance schedules are nearly identical to petrol cars—oil, filters, tyres, the usual. EVs need even less. Most of your “maintenance” is just checking the tyres and topping up washer fluid.

Myth 6: Total Cost of Ownership Is Always Higher

Not true. The total cost of owning an EV or hybrid—purchase, fuel, maintenance, and resale—can be lower than a petrol car, especially if you drive a lot, have access to home charging, or live where fuel is pricey. Incentives and rebates sweeten the deal for many buyers, and running costs are consistently lower.

Which EV and hybrid cost myth did you believe before reading this?

• 0%Maintenance is higher
• 0%Charging/fuel costs cancel out savings
• 0%Batteries need constant replacing
• 0%All of the above

You can vote for more than one answer.

EV and Hybrid Cost Misconceptions—The Real Story

• Upfront price is only part of the equation.

• Maintenance is lower, not higher.

• Batteries last longer than you think.

• Charging and fuel savings are real and add up fast.

• Total cost of ownership is often lower, especially over 5+ years.

Don’t let old myths steer you away from a smart, future-proof choice. Do the maths, ask questions, and look at the full picture. The numbers are on your side.

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