Diesel Still Beats Electric Cars on Cost Savings: 2,500 km Road Test by Journalists Reveals the Numbers.

Berlin-to-Madrid Road Test Puts EVs to the Test

According to Novyny.live: A team of Spanish journalists recently drove 2,500 km from Berlin to Madrid to compare the real-world costs of electric vehicles versus diesel cars. The experiment showed that diesel still holds a clear economic edge on long-distance trips, challenging the assumption that EVs are always cheaper to run.

Charging an EV turned out to be significantly more expensive than refueling a diesel car. Total charging costs for the electric vehicles were €53.62 higher than what it cost to fill up a diesel car. When compared to gasoline vehicles, however, the electric cars saved €136.61. This suggests that while EVs are gaining popularity, diesel engines still offer better value for money on long journeys.

Charging Patterns and Costs

The journalists used the Tesla Supercharger network to keep the EVs running at a steady pace, stopping to recharge every 200 to 300 km. Even so, the cost per kilometer remained higher than for diesel cars. On the plus side, the EVs maintained a consistent driving rhythm, which points to certain convenience benefits.

Overall, the road test provides a clear, real-world example of how different car types stack up on long-distance economy. The findings cast doubt on the idea that electric vehicles will fully replace diesel and gasoline cars anytime soon—especially for drivers who frequently travel long distances.

This experiment highlights the importance of factoring in economic considerations when choosing a car for long trips.

Despite the growing popularity of electric vehicles, the results show that traditional diesel cars can still be more cost-effective for long-haul drivers. This could slow the adoption of electric mobility, as consumers may prioritize running costs over environmental benefits.