Electric vs Conventional Cars: Which One is Right for You?

Posted on March 12, 2025 by Nur Wachda Mihmidati

The development of automotive technology is increasingly driving the shift from conventional fossil-fueled cars to more environmentally friendly electric cars. Whether for individual use or businesses with a fleet of vehicles, choosing between electric cars and conventional cars requires consideration of various aspects such as operational costs, energy efficiency, supporting infrastructure, and government regulations.

In this article, we will discuss the comparison between electric cars and conventional cars, including how businesses can optimize vehicle fleets with Smart Fleet Management System from TransTRACK for better efficiency and more sustainable operations.

Electric Car vs Conventional Cars Comparison for Individuals

The following is a comparison between electric cars and conventional cars based on several key aspects:

1. Energy Efficiency and Fuel Consumption

Electric Cars: Have much higher energy efficiency than fossil fuel cars. Most of the electrical energy used is converted directly into power to drive the vehicle.
Conventional Car: The internal combustion engine is only able to convert about 20-30% of the energy from the fuel into power, while the rest is lost as heat.

2. Purchase and Maintenance Costs

Electric Cars: The initial price tends to be higher due to high-cost batteries. However, maintenance costs are lower as there are fewer moving parts and no need for oil changes or complex engine maintenance.
Conventional Cars: The starting price is more variable, depending on the model and specifications. However, running costs are higher as it requires constant fuel as well as regular maintenance such as oil changes, filters, and other engine components.

3. Charging Infrastructure vs Gas Stations

Electric Cars: Charging infrastructure is still developing, and availability depends on the region. Home charging requires the installation of a special charger and longer charging times than refueling.
Conventional Cars: Gas stations are widely available, allowing for faster and more convenient refueling than electric car charging.

4. Environmental Impact and Carbon Emissions

Electric Cars: Do not produce direct emissions when in use, but the production of electricity for charging can still contribute to carbon emissions, depending on the source of electrical energy. Battery production also has an environmental impact, although battery recycling technology is growing.
Conventional Cars: Produce higher carbon emissions during use, including carbon dioxide (CO₂) and other pollutants that contribute to climate change and air pollution.

In conclusion, electric cars are superior in energy efficiency and environmental impact, while conventional cars still have an advantage in infrastructure and more affordable initial costs. The choice between the two depends on individual needs, access to charging infrastructure, and long-term cost considerations.

Electric vs Conventional Cars Comparison for Businesses with Fleets

The following is a comparison between electric cars and conventional cars in the context of businesses with vehicle fleets:

1. Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for Fleets

Electric Cars: Although the initial purchase price is higher, running costs are lower because energy costs are cheaper than fossil fuels. In addition, maintenance costs are lower as there are fewer moving parts and no need for oil changes or complex engine maintenance. In the long run, the TCO of electric cars can be more competitive, especially if there are tax incentives or subsidies.
Conventional Cars: More affordable initial purchase price and a wider selection of models. However, operating costs are higher due to fluctuating fuel prices and the need for regular maintenance such as oil changes, filters, and combustion systems.

2. Operational Efficiency and Vehicle Range

Electric Cars: More efficient in energy consumption and have a lower cost per kilometer than conventional vehicles. However, travel range is still limited by battery capacity, and charging time can be a constraint in fleet operations that require high mobility.
Conventional Car: Has the advantage of longer range and fast refueling at gas stations. This makes it more flexible for fleet operations with high mobility and long routes.

3. Government Regulations and Incentives

Electric Cars: Many countries provide tax incentives, subsidies, and ownership fee waivers for electric vehicles. Some cities are also enforcing low-emission zones (LEZs) that restrict fossil fuel vehicles. This can be a boon for businesses looking to reduce tax costs and take advantage of government incentives.
Conventional Cars: Facing increasing regulations related to carbon emissions, such as emission taxes and operational restrictions in some urban areas. This may increase operating costs in the long run if regulations become stricter.

Conclusion

Electric cars are more beneficial for businesses with fleets that operate within a limited radius, have access to charging infrastructure, and want to keep long-term costs down and take advantage of government incentives.
Conventional cars are still superior for fleets with high operational needs, especially in areas that do not have adequate charging infrastructure.

The best choice depends on the type of business operations, mileage requirements, and regulations and incentives applicable in the area where the fleet operates.

What are the operating costs of electric cars compared to gasoline cars?

The running costs of electric cars are lower than gasoline cars due to more efficient energy consumption and cheaper maintenance costs. Here is a general comparison:

1. Energy Cost (Electric vs. Gasoline)

Electric Cars: The average electricity consumption of an electric car is about 15-20 kWh per 100 km.
- If the household electricity tariff is around Rp1,500 per kWh, the cost of traveling 100 km is around Rp22,500 – Rp30,000.
Gasoline Car: Fuel consumption is about 10-15 km per liter.
- With a gasoline price of Rp13,000 per liter, a 100 km trip costs around Rp86,000 – Rp130,000.

🔹 Electric cars can be 3-5 times more efficient than gasoline cars in terms of energy consumption.

2. Maintenance Costs

Electric Cars: Fewer moving parts, no need for oil changes, timing belts, or spark plugs. Estimated maintenance cost 40-60% cheaper than gasoline cars.
Gasoline car: Requires regular maintenance such as oil changes, filters, and engine servicing, which can reach Rp5-10 million per year, depending on the type of vehicle.

Electric cars are more economical in the long run, especially for daily use or business fleets. However, it is necessary to consider the availability of charging infrastructure and the higher initial purchase price.

Are electric cars suitable for businesses with vehicle fleets?

Electric cars are suitable for businesses with a fleet of vehicles, especially if the operation is in line with the advantages of electric vehicles. Here are the key considerations:

Advantages of Electric Cars for Business Fleets

Lower Operating Costs – Electricity is cheaper than gasoline/diesel, and maintenance costs are lower due to fewer moving parts.
Low Incentives & Taxes – Many countries, including Indonesia, provide tax incentives, subsidies, and reduced operating costs for electric vehicles.
Environmentally Friendly & Regulatory Compliance – Suitable for businesses looking to reduce carbon emissions and meet low emission zone (LEZ) regulations.
Energy Efficiency – Lower cost per km than gasoline cars, ideal for city trips or fixed routes.

Challenges in Electric Fleet Usage

Limited Range – Suitable for short-medium distance trips, but less optimal for long routes without adequate charging infrastructure.
Charging Time – Battery charging takes longer than gasoline/diesel charging, although fast charging options are available.
High Initial Investment – The purchase price of electric cars is higher than conventional cars, although this can be offset by lower operating costs in the long run.

Therefore, electric cars will be suitable for businesses with fixed routes and available charging infrastructure (e.g. transportation services, urban logistics, or inner-city operational vehicles). But it is less ideal for businesses that require long range and high flexibility, unless there is fast charging station support along the operational route.

Electric cars and conventional cars have their own advantages and challenges. Electric cars offer energy efficiency, lower operational costs, and less environmental impact, while conventional cars still excel in operational flexibility and wider infrastructure.

For businesses looking to switch to an electric vehicle fleet or optimize conventional vehicle operations, the best solution is to use Smart Fleet Management System. With this system, companies can monitor energy consumption, EV battery status, fuel efficiency, and carbon emissions in real-time. With accurate data, businesses can make better decisions to improve efficiency and sustainability of fleet operations.

Optimize your fleet now! Use Smart Fleet Management System for maximum efficiency and a greener future.