Swedish EV maker Polestar has released a survey showing Australians save nearly $100 on fuel costs per month by making the switch to an electric vehicle. The survey of 1,015 Australian motorists revealed 62% of electric vehicle owners’ median monthly charging cost was $60 compared to $150 spent by petrol, diesel, and hybrid drivers on fuel.
Research began in December last year and was completed in mid-January, prior to the massive surge in fuel prices as a result of the Middle East conflict. It makes the survey results even more relevant to Australian road users.
“Electric vehicles were saving Australian drivers money even before the current fuel crisis,” said Polestar Australia Managing Director Scott Maynard.
“Even with the recent federal government cuts to the fuel excise, the availability and security of Australia’s fuel supply remain a critical focus. Our vulnerability has been exposed, and won’t magically improve when the current conflict ends. With lower running costs, improved performance, and simpler servicing, the benefits of going electric are clear. There’s no time like the present to make the switch.”
MORE SURVEY DETAILS
The median weekly driving distance from respondents was 158km, and 84% of drivers cover up to 300km per week.
The longest single journey taken by 72% of respondents in the last 12 months was less than 500km.
36% of petrol, diesel, hybrid, and electric vehicle owners reporting some form of ‘pump anxiety’ even prior to the recent uncertainties around the availability of fuel.
The research was conducted via an online survey of 1,015 Australian adults, including 810 internal combustion engine drivers and 205 electric vehicle owners. Fieldwork took place between 22 December 2025 and 20 January 2026 and was conducted through PureProfile Australia.
Although these results make a compelling argument for pure EVs, there are serious investment considerations to take into account. Established Electric Vehicle drivers are not using public charging to do most of their top-ups, with 79% charging at home, where rooftop solar and batteries, energy plans tailored to EV charging, and the ability to charge off-peak offer control over cost.
