Wondering whether to stick with petrol, switch to diesel, or go electric in the Netherlands? This guide breaks down the real costs for 2025, using up-to-date fuel prices, public charger tariffs, and government tax changes. Whether you’re a commuter, business owner, or just EV-curious, you’ll find actionable insights and a break-even calculator to help you decide. Jump to the calculator or read on for a full comparison.
How to use the Fuel vs EV Cost Calculator
- Go to the Fuel vs EV Cost Calculator.
- Enter your daily commute distance, car type, and charging habits.
- See instant results for monthly and yearly costs, plus break-even analysis.
For more tips, see our EV CO₂ Savings Explained and Discount Calculator.
Average prices (Q2 2025)
| Energy type | Price | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Petrol (Euro 95) | €2.12/L | ANWB Fuel Monitor |
| Diesel | €1.89/L | ANWB Fuel Monitor |
| Home charging | €0.28/kWh | CBS Energy Tariff |
| Fast DC charger | €0.79/kWh | Fastned (avg) |
Case study: 40 km daily commute
Let’s compare a typical Dutch commute for three car types:
- Petrol car: 6.2 L/100 km, monthly cost: €52.6
- Diesel car: 5.0 L/100 km, monthly cost: €38.0
- EV: 16 kWh/100 km, 80 % home, 20 % fast charger, monthly cost: €23.5
Switching from petrol to EV saves ~€29 per month—almost €350 per year. Diesel is cheaper than petrol, but still more expensive than EVs for most drivers.
How fuel taxes influence the gap
Excise duty on petrol is €0.80 /L in 2025, while electricity taxes for households are capped at €0.13 /kWh. The government’s plan to raise road‑tax (MRB) for EVs in 2026 could narrow—but not close—the gap.
FAQ
- Will dynamic contracts make EV charging cheaper?
- Yes. Night‑time rates on dynamic tariffs drop below €0.10 /kWh, cutting EV running costs by half.
- Are hybrids still a good compromise?
- PHEVs cost less per km than petrol but more than full EVs, due to smaller batteries and higher maintenance.
- Can I save more with home solar panels?
- Absolutely. Charging your EV with solar can reduce your cost to near zero, especially in summer months.
- Will EV incentives change in 2026?
- Government incentives are being reduced, but EVs will still benefit from lower running costs and tax breaks compared to petrol/diesel.
- How accurate are these prices?
- All prices are based on official sources (ANWB, CBS, Fastned) and updated quarterly. Your actual costs may vary by region and contract.
- How do I convert Celsius to Fahrenheit?
- See our Celsius vs Fahrenheit Cooking Guide for conversion tips and charts.
Last updated 15 Jun 2025
Real-Life Story: Commuting Costs for a Dutch Family
Meet the Janssens, a family living in Utrecht. They switched from a petrol car to an EV in early 2024. With two kids and a daily commute of 40 km, they were spending over €60 a month on petrol. After switching, their monthly charging bill dropped to just €25, and they found charging at home was not only cheaper but more convenient. "We plug in overnight and never worry about fuel stations," says Marieke Janssen. "Plus, our kids love seeing how much CO₂ we save each month!"
Myths vs Facts: Fuel vs EV in the Netherlands
- Myth: "EVs are only for city drivers."
Fact: With fast chargers on every major highway, EVs are practical for long commutes and road trips. - Myth: "Diesel is always cheaper than electricity."
Fact: Diesel prices fluctuate, and EVs win for most drivers—especially with home solar or dynamic contracts. - Myth: "Charging is slow and complicated."
Fact: Most EV owners charge at home or work, and fast chargers can add 100 km range in 15 minutes.
Future Trends: What’s Next for Dutch Drivers?
By 2030, the Dutch government aims for 1.5 million EVs on the road. More public chargers, smarter grids, and falling battery prices will make electric driving even more affordable. Road tax for EVs will rise, but incentives for home solar and dynamic contracts will help offset costs. Expect more used EVs on the market, making the switch accessible for everyone.
Practical Tips to Save on Fuel & Charging
- Charge overnight or during off-peak hours for the lowest rates.
- Compare energy contracts dynamic tariffs can cut costs by 30% or more.
- Keep tires inflated and avoid rough driving to maximize efficiency.
- Consider installing solar panels to charge your EV for free in summer.
- Use route planners to find the cheapest and fastest chargers on your journey.
Conclusion: Making the Smart Choice
Whether you drive petrol, diesel, or electric, understanding your real costs is key. For most Dutch drivers, EVs offer the lowest running costs, especially with smart charging and solar. The transition is easier than you think, and every kilometer you drive electric helps build a cleaner, more affordable future. If you’re still on the fence, try our calculator and see how much you could save—your wallet and the planet will thank you!