Electric
EV energy consumption: what does 100 km cost?
How cheap an electric car really is comes down to its energy consumption — but what do 100 kilometres cost in everyday use? We work with real figures, compare against petrol and diesel and show what matters when it comes to an EV's energy use.
How much does 100 km cost in an electric car?
The cost of 100 kilometres in an electric car depends on two things: how much energy the vehicle uses and what you pay for electricity. As a private household in Switzerland you typically pay 25 to 35 centimes per kilowatt hour (kWh).
| Vehicle class | Consumption | Cost/100 km (30 cts/kWh) |
|---|---|---|
| Small EV (e.g. VW ID.3) | 15 kWh/100 km | approx. CHF 4.50 |
| Mid-size EV (e.g. Tesla Model 3) | 17 kWh/100 km | approx. CHF 5.10 |
| Electric SUV (e.g. Audi Q4 e-tron) | 20 kWh/100 km | approx. CHF 6.00 |
| Large SUV (e.g. BMW iX) | 22 kWh/100 km | approx. CHF 6.60 |
Which is cheaper: electric, petrol or diesel?
To make the comparison meaningful, we use current Swiss fuel prices (approx. CHF 2 per litre of petrol, approx. CHF 2.10 per litre of diesel):
| Drivetrain | Consumption | Cost/100 km |
|---|---|---|
| Electric (home charging) | 17 kWh | approx. CHF 5.10 |
| Electric (fast charger) | 17 kWh + losses | approx. CHF 12–18 |
| Petrol (small car) | 6 l | approx. CHF 12.00 |
| Petrol (mid-size) | 8 l | approx. CHF 16.00 |
| Diesel (mid-size) | 6 l | approx. CHF 12.60 |
What affects energy consumption?
Not every electric car uses the same amount. These factors play a role:
- Size and weight: Compact EVs are more efficient than heavy SUVs.
- Driving style: Gentle acceleration and recuperation lower consumption noticeably.
- Tyre pressure: Too little pressure increases rolling resistance and with it consumption.
- Temperature: Winter driving raises consumption by 20–40 % through heating and battery management.
- Motorway vs. city: EVs are more efficient in city traffic; on the motorway the higher speeds push consumption up.
Electric cars at FlexiMoto
At FlexiMoto you will find a growing selection of electric and hybrid vehicles. Every car comes with its full history — including battery condition and remaining warranty. Financing and leasing for electric cars can be configured directly on the vehicle.
Frequently asked questions
What do 100 km in an electric car cost in Switzerland?
With an average electricity price of 25 to 35 centimes per kWh and a consumption of 15 to 20 kWh/100 km, the cost works out at roughly 4 to 7 francs per 100 km. For comparison: a petrol car using 7 litres/100 km costs about 14 francs per 100 km at CHF 2 per litre.
What is a realistic energy consumption in winter?
In winter, consumption can rise by 20 to 40 %, because heating, seat heating and battery management need extra energy. At temperatures below minus 10 degrees Celsius, figures of 22 to 28 kWh/100 km are realistic.
Is an electric car still worth it when electricity is expensive?
Even at electricity prices of 30 to 40 centimes/kWh, an electric car is clearly cheaper to run than a petrol or diesel car. On top of that you save on maintenance (no oil changes, less brake wear) and benefit from tax advantages in many cantons.
Related guides
- Bidirectional charging – V2H and V2G in Switzerland.
- EV tax advantages – Tax savings canton by canton.
- Electric cars in the marketplace – Discover electric and hybrid vehicles.