Nissan Leaf vs. electric car: running cost
A Nissan Leaf is cheaper to run: about $778 a year versus $802 for an electric car at typical use and 17.99¢/kWh, a $24 difference.
| Nissan Leaf | Electric car | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical watts | 6,600 W | 7,200 W |
| Watt range | 1,440–6,600 W | 1,440–11,500 W |
| Typical use | 37 miles a day | 37 miles a day |
| Energy per year | 4,325 kWh | 4,460 kWh |
| Cost per hour | $1.19 | $1.30 |
| Cost per day | $2.13 | $2.20 |
| Cost per month | $64.83 | $66.86 |
| Cost per year | $778 | $802 |
| Per year in Hawaii (43.51¢) | $1,882 | $1,940 |
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What drives the difference
- Nissan Leaf: The Leaf uses about 0.29-0.31 kWh per mile from the battery, about 0.32 at the wall, and charges at up to 6.6 kW on Level 2.
- Electric car: An average EV uses about 0.30 kWh per mile from the battery, about 0.33 kWh at the wall with charging losses; 37 miles a day is about 4,500 kWh a year.
Ways to cut either cost
Matches the Leaf's onboard charger with lower losses than Level 1.
See options on AmazonMore efficient than a 120 V cord and charges overnight on off-peak hours.
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Frequently asked questions
Which costs more to run, a Nissan Leaf or an electric car?
At typical use and the U.S. average rate (17.99¢/kWh), an electric car costs about $802 a year versus $778 for a Nissan Leaf. That's $24 more.
How many watts do Nissan Leaf and electric car use?
A Nissan Leaf typically draws 6,600 W (range 1,440–6,600 W). An electric car draws 7,200 W (range 1,440–11,500 W). Watts alone don't decide cost. Hours of use, cycling and standby matter just as much.
Rates: EIA, 12 months ending 2026-07. Methodology.