Is It Cheaper to Drive an Electric Car Than Buying Petrol?

In the evolving landscape of travel and transportation, the debate between electric cars and petrol-powered vehicles extends to tourists considering car rentals. 

Because of the number of variables, calculating the benefits and downsides of electric and petrol vehicles is complicated. If you’re contemplating renting an electric car in Phuket, this article will delve into the cost-effectiveness, benefits, and practicalities of electric versus petrol cars.

Cost Considerations

Electric cars generally have higher rental rates than their petrol counterparts due to the higher cost of the vehicle. However, they tend to malfunction less and require less maintenance because they have fewer moving parts and don’t require oil changes.

The most significant saving with electric cars comes from not having to pay for petrol. Electricity is cheaper, and the efficiency of electric vehicles can create substantial savings for you over time. Additionally, charging stations are becoming more and more common, especially near hotels and tourist spots in Phuket. The battery life of electric vehicles is also continuously improving.

Petrol cars usually come with lower rental prices and more selection. Maintenance risks can be higher, however, especially for longer trips because they require oil changes and have more mechanical parts that could need repairs.

The cost of petrol can vary, but it’s almost always more expensive than electricity for electric vehicles. The fuel efficiency of the car model plays a significant role in determining the overall cost it will add to your trip, so make sure to take that into account if you plan to do a lot of long-distance driving on your trip.

Other Considerations

Electric vehicles produce zero emissions, helping reduce air pollution while leaving a smaller carbon footprint. This can feel especially relevant when you’re driving through Phuket’s natural beauty.

Many drivers report a smoother and quieter driving experience with electric cars. Depending on where you plan to travel, being able to have a quiet ride that immerses you in the landscape can be important.

If having a wider variety is important, there are more petrol cars for tourists to choose from according to their preferences and needs. This allows you to scale up or down depending on the kinds of roads you plan to drive and how many people you’re travelling with.

Petrol cars currently offer longer ranges on a single tank than many electric cars on a full charge. They also come with the convenience of quick refuelling at petrol stations, which can be a crucial factor when it comes to exploring Phuket and the surrounding area.

The Upside of Rentals

Renting your own car in Phuket, be it electric or petrol, presents numerous advantages for a tourist. Having a car provides the freedom to explore Phuket at your own pace, without being tied to tour schedules or having to navigate public transportation routes.

Thailand is home to many hidden gems–secluded beaches, hilltop viewpoints, and local villages–that are often inaccessible via public transport. All of this becomes available to you the second you get behind the wheel of a car.

Being comfortable is also important on a vacation, especially in a tropical climate like Phuket. An equipped rental car provides just that, along with a convenient place to keep your belongings as you travel. For families or groups of travellers, renting a car can make it easier to get around, and is typically more cost-effective than buying multiple tickets for public transportation or taxis.

Looking Ahead

Whether it’s better to rent an electric or a petrol car in Phuket depends on multiple factors, including budget and travel needs. Electric cars offer a greener, quieter, and potentially cheaper experience, but they are limited by the availability of charging stations and higher rental costs. Petrol cars, on the other hand, provide more variety and longer ranges, but have higher fuel costs and a greater impact on the environment.

Regardless of which style you choose, renting a car from Drive Car Rental elevates the tourist experience, offering unparalleled freedom, comfort, and the ability to intimately explore everything the island has to offer. Check out our offerings of petrol and electric cars today!