EV vs ICE: Surprising Differences Explained

The debate between Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles is one of the most important in the automotive world today. Governments, consumers, and automakers are all grappling with the shift toward electrification, but many people still wonder: Which is better, EV or ICE? The answer isn’t as simple as you might think. Let’s look at the differences - some surprising, and see how they really compare.

Cost of Ownership

EV advantage:

While EVs often have a higher upfront purchase price, they tend to cost much less to run over time. Electricity is usually cheaper per mile than petrol or diesel, and maintenance costs are lower since EVs have fewer moving parts, no oil changes, fewer brake replacements (thanks to regenerative braking), and simpler drivetrains.

Surprising difference:

Fleet insurance can be more expensive for EVs in some markets, partly because repair costs (especially for battery replacement or specialist bodywork) can be higher. However, some insurers now offer dedicated EV policies with competitive rates.

Performance

EV advantage:

EVs deliver instant torque, giving them quick acceleration even in modest models. Many drivers are surprised to find that an electric family hatchback can beat a petrol car off the line at traffic lights.

Surprising difference:

Top speed often favours ICE cars. Many EVs have software-limited maximum speeds to preserve battery range and safety, while performance ICE cars can maintain high speeds more consistently without overheating.

Environmental Impact

EV advantage:

EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, making them far cleaner in cities. Even when considering the carbon footprint of electricity generation and battery manufacturing, most lifecycle analyses show EVs have lower overall emissions especially as grids get greener.

Surprising difference:

Battery production has a high environmental impact, especially due to mining for lithium, cobalt, and nickel. Recycling and second-life battery uses are improving but remain a challenge. In regions with very coal-heavy power grids, EVs may have a smaller emissions advantage than people assume.

Range and Refuelling

ICE advantage:

Petrol and diesel vehicles still win on range and refueling speed. You can fill up in minutes and drive 400–600 miles on a single tank which is ideal for long-distance travel without planning charging stops.

Surprising difference:

Many EV owners adapt quickly to charging at home overnight, effectively "starting each day with a full tank." For typical daily driving, this can be more convenient than going to petrol stations.

Maintenance and Reliability

EV advantage:

EVs have fewer parts to fail: no exhaust systems, no spark plugs, no oil changes. Regenerative braking reduces brake wear. This can mean significantly lower maintenance costs over time.

Surprising difference:

Batteries can degrade over time, reducing range. While modern EV batteries are proving durable (many warranties cover 8+ years), replacements remain costly if needed out of warranty.

Driving Experience

EV advantage:

Quiet, smooth, and refined. Many drivers describe the EV experience as relaxing, with near-silent operation and linear acceleration.

Surprising difference:

Some enthusiasts miss the visceral sound and feel of an ICE engine. Manual transmissions, engine noise, and the "mechanical character" of petrol cars are part of the appeal for traditional car lovers.

Infrastructure

ICE advantage (for now):

Petrol stations are everywhere, and drivers don’t have to think about availability.

Surprising difference:

Charging infrastructure is expanding fast, especially in urban areas and along motorways. Home charging is a game-changer for many, eliminating the need for frequent trips to refuel.

Resale Value

Mixed results:

Some EVs hold value well, especially sought-after models with strong range and brand cachet. Others suffer from faster depreciation due to fears about battery life or rapid tech improvements.

Surprising difference:

Government incentives, tax breaks, and low-emission zone exemptions can significantly improve the real-world cost of owning an EV, even if depreciation is steeper.

Conclusion: Which Is Better?

It depends on your needs.

If you drive mostly short distances, want lower running costs, and care about reducing emissions, an EV is probably the better choice - even factoring in higher purchase prices and charging considerations.

If you regularly drive long distances with minimal stops, or live somewhere with limited charging infrastructure, an ICE vehicle may still make more sense (for now).

What’s clear is that the differences between EVs and ICE vehicles go far beyond the powertrain. EVs bring a new way of thinking about mobility - quieter, cleaner, and lower-maintenance - but with their own trade-offs around charging and initial cost.

As technology and infrastructure improve, these trade-offs are shrinking. The future seems firmly electric, but for many buyers today, the choice between EV and ICE is still about balancing what matters most to them.