Electric or gasoline: a simple model to decide when buying a new vehicle

In this work, a simple methodology to follow the behavior of motorized urban vehicles, from the point of view of personal finances, is presented. Including the acquisition of a new vehicle, the analysis considers the driving distance per week, the average speed, the time spent at rest due to traffic conditions, the evolution of gasoline and electric energy prices, maintenance and services, and local taxes. Herein, two low-range compact vehicles were chosen and compared: one powered by combustion of gasoline, and the other by electric energy stored in batteries. Historical data and trend projections, according to inflation and prices evolution, are taken into consideration. The developed model may help to select adequately a new vehicle, according to the user’s needs. A good choice depends strongly on the usage and traffic conditions, the electric vehicle being suitable for large weekly driving distances and heavy traffic, whereas the gasoline vehicle is preferred for short distances and light traffic. The expenses of the vehicles are compared through time, with different scenarios envisaged according to the user’s resolution to keep the vehicle for the entire lifespan or to sell it quickly.