EV Fuel Costs, Surprises Included
About this episode
A deep dive into the cost comparisons between electric vehicles (EVs) and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, featuring insights from Aiden Bergsman of Anderson Economics. The discussion highlights surprising findings, such as how luxury EVs can be cheaper to fuel than their gasoline counterparts, especially when charged at home. The episode also touches on the complexities of charging costs, the impact of tax credits on EV sales, and personal anecdotes about driving experiences. Listeners will gain a clearer understanding of the financial implications of owning an EV versus a traditional vehicle.
Ever wondered why your first fast-charging session felt so pricey? We dig into the real numbers behind fueling an electric vehicle versus a gas car and show where the savings actually live. With Anderson Economic Group’s data in hand, we focus on fuel-only costs per 100 miles, stripping away purchase price and repairs to reveal a clean comparison that helps you decide based on your daily reality, not marketing claims.
We break down how pricing shifts with your charging mix. Rely on commercial DC fast chargers with flat session fees and layered rates, and your EV can get expensive fast. Charge mostly at home on residential electricity, and the story flips—especially for luxury models that would otherwise drink premium gas. You’ll hear concrete figures from Michigan: entry-level gas cars near $9.10 per 100 miles, comparable EVs around $13.40 with mostly home charging and roughly $16.16 with mostly commercial. In the luxury segment, premium-fuel ICE averages around $17, while a luxury EV charged at home lands near $14.43. We also cover what a Level 2 setup really costs, why installation matters, and who should think twice before skipping home charging.
Policy and market context matter too. EV sales jumped when tax credits neared expiration, while tariffs cooled overall vehicle sales even as EV share grew. That push-pull dynamic shapes lineups, charging business models, and the rate structures utilities design for off-peak charging. To round things out, we take a practical detour into big rig sleeper cabs—comparing comfort, tech, and costs across Peterbilt, Kenworth, Freightliner, Volvo, and International—to highlight how real-world use cases drive smart equipment choices at every scale.
If you’re deciding between gas and electric, this guide will help you map your commute, your charging access, and your local rates to your actual costs. Subscribe, share this episode with a friend who’s shopping, and leave a review with your biggest EV or gas cost surprise.
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Geely Motors
"Uh Geely Motors, all made in China for the most part. Anyway, nice vehicle."
Geely Motors is a car company from China that makes various types of vehicles, including electric ones. They have been growing by buying other car brands.
Geely Motors is a Chinese automotive manufacturer known for producing a wide range of vehicles, including electric cars. The company has expanded its presence globally through acquisitions and partnerships.
fast charging station
"So right around the corner from my office is a fast charging station, a big one."
A fast charging station is a place where you can quickly charge your electric car's battery. It works much faster than regular chargers, so you don't have to wait long to get back on the road.
A fast charging station is a facility that provides high-speed charging for electric vehicles, allowing them to recharge their batteries much quicker than standard chargers. This is essential for reducing downtime during long trips.
EV
"...you may just feel better knowing that you're driving an EV compared to a nice car, or you like maybe the convenience that it's right next to your work..."
An EV, or Electric Vehicle, runs on electricity instead of gas. This means it doesn't produce exhaust fumes and can be cheaper to run because you don't have to buy gas.
EV stands for Electric Vehicle, which is powered entirely by electricity rather than gasoline or diesel. These vehicles are known for being environmentally friendly and often have lower operating costs compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles.
ICE vehicle
"...depending on if somebody wants to purchase an EV or stick with their ICE vehicle."
An ICE vehicle is a car that runs on gasoline or diesel fuel. Most cars on the road today are ICE vehicles, which use an engine that burns fuel to create power.
ICE stands for Internal Combustion Engine, which refers to vehicles that are powered by gasoline or diesel engines. These vehicles have been the traditional choice for many years before the rise of electric vehicles.
Pontiac Vibe
"Igota2009PontiacVibe. UhsoI'mdrivingatime. PontiacVibe,whichifI'mnotmistaken,Ibelieveunderneaththatthingit'saToyota."
The Pontiac Vibe is a small car that looks like a hatchback. It was made by Pontiac and is similar to a Toyota car called the Matrix, which means it uses some of the same parts and technology.
The Pontiac Vibe is a compact hatchback that was produced by Pontiac from 2002 to 2010. It shares its platform with the Toyota Matrix, which means it has many components in common with Toyota vehicles, contributing to its reliability and practicality.
Toyota Matrix
"...who owned a Toyota Matrix, and we put those things side by side, and it was almost identical. And a great car, by the way."
The Toyota Matrix is a small car that looks like a hatchback. It was made by Toyota and is known for being useful and having a lot of space inside.
The Toyota Matrix is a compact hatchback that was produced from 2002 to 2014. It shares a platform with the Toyota Corolla and is known for its practicality and versatility.
Honda Civic
"that's gonna include, you know, for ICE vehicles, models like Honda Civics, Kia Fortes..."
The Honda Civic is a small car that many people like because it's dependable and gets good gas mileage. It's been around for a long time and is very popular.
The Honda Civic is a compact car known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. It has been a popular choice for many drivers since its introduction in the 1970s.
Kia Forte
"models like Honda Civics, Kia Fortes, uh, Subaru Imprezas..."
The Kia Forte is a small car that is affordable and has nice features. It's a good option for people looking for a reliable vehicle.
The Kia Forte is a compact car that offers a good balance of features, performance, and value. It is known for its stylish design and modern technology.
Subaru Impreza
"Kia Fortes, uh, Subaru Imprezas for the EVs..."
The Subaru Impreza is a small car that is good for all types of weather because it has all-wheel drive. It's a favorite for people who live in areas with snow or rain.
The Subaru Impreza is a compact car known for its all-wheel drive capability and versatility. It is popular among drivers who need a reliable vehicle for various weather conditions.
Nissan Leaf
"but Nissan Leaf, Chevy, Chevy Bolt."
The Nissan Leaf is a small car that runs on electricity instead of gas. It's popular because it's good for the environment and easy to drive.
The Nissan Leaf is an all-electric compact car that has gained popularity for its eco-friendliness and practicality. It is one of the best-selling electric vehicles in the world.
Chevrolet Bolt
"Chevy, Chevy Bolt."
The Chevrolet Bolt is a small electric car that is affordable and can go a long distance on a single charge. It's a good option for people looking to switch to electric driving.
The Chevrolet Bolt is an all-electric hatchback that offers a practical range and affordability. It is designed to compete in the growing electric vehicle market.
EVs
"...For EVs, we do two different main calculations. Somebody who's charging mostly at home, so 75% of their power comes from home chargers versus 25% commercial..."
EVs stand for electric vehicles. These are cars that run on electricity instead of gasoline, which can be better for the environment and cheaper to fuel.
EVs, or electric vehicles, are cars that are powered entirely or primarily by electricity instead of gasoline or diesel. They use electric motors and batteries to operate, offering benefits like lower emissions and reduced fuel costs.
home chargers
"...charging mostly at home, so 75% of their power comes from home chargers versus 25% commercial..."
Home chargers are special plugs you can install at your house to charge your electric car. They make it easy to charge your car overnight while you're at home.
Home chargers are devices installed at residential locations that allow electric vehicle owners to charge their cars using standard electrical outlets or dedicated charging stations. They are typically more convenient and cost-effective than using public charging stations.
commercial charging stations
"...versus 25% commercial, and the flipside, mostly commercial versus mostly at only 25% at home."
Commercial charging stations are places you can go to charge your electric car, like at a shopping center or gas station. They usually charge your car faster than a home charger.
Commercial charging stations are public or business-operated locations where electric vehicle owners can charge their cars. These stations often provide faster charging options compared to home chargers, making them useful for long trips or when a quick charge is needed.
80-inch sleeper
"...It's an 80-inch sleeper. Comfort and customization is best."
An 80-inch sleeper is a part of a truck that allows drivers to sleep comfortably while on the road. It's important for long trips so drivers can rest well.
An 80-inch sleeper refers to the size of the sleeping compartment in a truck, providing enough space for a driver to rest comfortably during long hauls. This feature is crucial for driver comfort and retention.
fuel efficiency
"Fuelefficiencyandcomfortiswhatit'sknownfor. Theprosarequietcabwithexcellent,excellentinsulation,ergonomicinteriordesign,smartwheelcontrolsforthedigitaldash."
Fuel efficiency is how well a vehicle uses fuel to go a distance. Better fuel efficiency means the vehicle can go further on less fuel, which saves money.
Fuel efficiency refers to how far a vehicle can travel on a certain amount of fuel. It's an important factor for trucks, as it affects operating costs and environmental impact.
ergonomic interior design
"Theprosarequietcabwithexcellent,excellentinsulation,ergonomicinteriordesign,smartwheelcontrolsforthedigitaldash. Thecons,slightlysmallerlivingspacethanthefirstonethatPeterbuilt,uh,who'sgotthelargestsleeper."
Ergonomic interior design means making the inside of a vehicle comfortable and easy to use for the driver. It helps reduce fatigue during long drives.
Ergonomic interior design focuses on creating a comfortable and efficient space for the driver. This includes the layout of controls, seating, and overall usability.
miles per gallon
"Greatforfleetsfocusedondriversatisfactionandmilespergallonbecausethat'svery,veryimportant."
Miles per gallon is a way to measure how far a vehicle can go on a gallon of gas. The higher the number, the better the vehicle is at saving fuel.
Miles per gallon (MPG) is a measure of fuel efficiency, indicating how many miles a vehicle can travel on one gallon of fuel. Higher MPG ratings are generally more desirable as they indicate better fuel economy.
sleepers
"Onsomeofthese,can'tyoubuythesleepersseparatelyfromtheactualcabandthentheymarrythem?"
Sleepers are small sleeping areas in big trucks where drivers can rest. They are usually separate from the front part of the truck where the driver sits.
Sleepers refer to the sleeping compartments in long-haul trucks, allowing drivers to rest during long trips. These compartments are often separate from the main cab and can be customized for comfort.
Freightliner Cascadia
"ThenextoneisaFreightlineruhCascadia. Cascadia."
The Freightliner Cascadia is a big truck used for transporting goods over long distances. It's built to be comfortable for drivers and to save fuel, which is important for businesses.
The Freightliner Cascadia is a popular heavy-duty truck designed for long-haul transportation. It features advanced technology for fuel efficiency and driver comfort, making it a favorite among fleet operators.
sleeper cab
"It's a 72-inch raised roof sleeper. Uhit's best known for its fleet efficiency and reliability for the drivers."
A sleeper cab is a special area in a truck where drivers can sleep. It usually has a bed and is designed for long trips.
A sleeper cab is a compartment in a truck that allows drivers to rest or sleep during long hauls. It typically includes a bed and sometimes additional amenities for comfort.
fleet efficiency
"Uhit's best known for its fleet efficiency and reliability for the drivers. The pros, available in the Detroit Assurance Suite for Safety Features, optimize the fuel economy and uptime."
Fleet efficiency is how well a group of vehicles works together, especially in saving fuel and money. The better the efficiency, the less it costs to run them.
Fleet efficiency refers to the effectiveness of a group of vehicles in terms of fuel consumption, maintenance, and overall operational costs. High fleet efficiency means lower costs and better performance for businesses.
safety features
"The pros, available in the Detroit Assurance Suite for Safety Features, optimize the fuel economy and uptime. It's a well-balanced sleeper layout with optional amenities."
Safety features are special technologies in vehicles that help prevent accidents and keep people safe inside. They can include things like automatic brakes and warnings if you drift out of your lane.
Safety features in vehicles include technologies designed to prevent accidents and protect occupants, such as automatic braking, lane departure warnings, and stability control systems. These features enhance overall safety for drivers and passengers.
Volvo
"It's a US-based brand Volvo, the VNL series, puts driver experience front and center with most ergonomically friendly interiors available."
Volvo is a car brand from Sweden that makes vehicles known for being safe and comfortable to drive.
Volvo is a Swedish automotive brand known for its focus on safety and driver experience. The company produces a range of vehicles, including trucks and passenger cars.
VNL series
"It's a US-based brand Volvo, the VNL series, puts driver experience front and center with most ergonomically friendly interiors available."
The VNL series is a type of truck made by Volvo, designed to be comfortable for drivers who spend a lot of time on the road.
The Volvo VNL series is a line of heavy-duty trucks designed for long-haul transport, emphasizing driver comfort and ergonomics.
LT series
"The last one we have, Mike, is an International LT series."
The LT series is a type of truck made by International, which is designed for long-distance driving and is popular among companies that need to transport goods.
The International LT series is a line of commercial trucks designed for long-haul applications, offering features that cater to fleet operators and drivers.
fuel economy
"Competitive pricing and fuel economy with a smart nav system, Bluetooth integration, decent sleep area with basic amenities, the cons, fewer premium sleep options."
Fuel economy is how far a vehicle can go on a certain amount of fuel. It's usually measured in miles per gallon or liters per 100 kilometers.
Fuel economy refers to the efficiency of a vehicle in using fuel, typically measured in miles per gallon (MPG) or liters per 100 kilometers (L/100km).
ceramic coating
"...massage your original paint to a like-new appearance, apply a ceramic coating, install a paint protection film..."
Ceramic coating is a special liquid that you put on your car's paint to protect it and make it shiny. It helps keep dirt and water from sticking to the surface.
Ceramic coating is a liquid polymer applied to the exterior of a vehicle to provide a protective layer against environmental contaminants and enhance shine. It creates a hydrophobic surface that repels water and dirt.
Gulf Coast Auto Shield
"...apply a ceramic coating, install a paint protection film, nanoceramic window tint, or new windshield protection called Exoshield, Gulf Coast Auto Shield is where Houston's car people go."
Gulf Coast Auto Shield is a business that helps keep your car looking new. They offer services like fixing paint, adding protective coatings, and more to make your car shine.
Gulf Coast Auto Shield is a company that specializes in automotive exterior services, including paint restoration, ceramic coatings, and paint protection films. They cater to car enthusiasts looking to maintain or enhance the appearance of their vehicles.
paint protection film
"...apply a ceramic coating, install a paint protection film, nanoceramic window tint..."
Paint protection film is a clear layer that you can put on your car to keep the paint safe from scratches and damage. It helps your car look good for longer.
Paint protection film is a clear, durable material applied to the exterior of a vehicle to protect the paint from scratches, chips, and other damage. It helps maintain the vehicle's appearance over time.
radar detector
"...How about a professionally installed radar detector? Gulf Coast Auto Shield does that too."
A radar detector is a gadget that helps you know when police are using radar to check how fast you're going. It beeps or alerts you so you can slow down if needed.
A radar detector is an electronic device that detects radar signals used by police to measure vehicle speed. It alerts drivers to the presence of speed enforcement, allowing them to adjust their speed accordingly.
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