COST PER MILE COMPARISON: DIESEL V ELECTRIC V PLUG-IN HYBRID TESTED SIDE-BY-SIDE IN CONVOY

EV Channels Review

This video presents a compelling, real-world cost-per-mile comparison between a Mercedes S350d (diesel), a Tesla Model S85D (electric), and a Chevrolet Volt (plug-in hybrid) over a 31.4-mile journey. The reviewer highlights the efficiency of the diesel, achieving 48.7 mpg and costing £5.24 for the one-way trip. The Tesla, running purely on electricity, was the most cost-effective at £1.83 for the same distance, averaging 3.45 miles per kWh. The Chevrolet Volt also performed well on electric power for the outbound journey, covering 31.4 miles on electricity alone with impressive efficiency (3.58 miles/kWh) at a cost of £1.76. However, the return journey, which necessitated using the petrol engine, significantly increased the Volt's running costs to £11.02 for 88.7 miles, averaging 12 pence per mile. The reviewer concludes that while plug-in hybrids have their place for shorter, electric-only commutes, pure electric vehicles like the Tesla offer the most significant long-term cost savings for higher mileage drivers, even when considering potential overnight charging tariffs. The diesel remains a viable, albeit more expensive, option for those prioritizing traditional powertrains.