In Italy, the economics of electric mobility have changed widely, thanks to falling purchase prices, competitive rental costs and much lower running costs compared to petrol and diesel cars. Whether you’re thinking about buying an electric vehicle or simply renting one for your next trip, the numbers now tell a very different story.
This change is not just theoretical. According to data from EconomyBookingsin 2025 electric vehicle rentals in Italy increased by 28.5% compared to the previous year, a clear sign that consumers are responding to greater accessibility and convenience. Let’s break down why electric cars are now cheaper than most people think, starting with everyday costs and then moving on to rentals and purchases.
Charging vs petrol: the daily savings add up
One of the most frequent questions that motorists ask themselves is how much does it cost to recharge an electric car compared to refueling with petrol. The answer is increasingly reassuring.
On average, charging an electric vehicle at home in Italy costs between €0.20 and €0.30 per kWh, depending on the energy contract and time of use. A typical electric car consumes around 15-18 kWh per 100km, which translates to around €3-5 per 100km when charging at home. Even using public chargers, where prices are higher, the cost often remains under €7-8 per 100 km.
Now compare that to a petrol car. Given fuel prices that fluctuate between €1.80 and €2.00 per liter and an average consumption of 6-7 liters per 100 km, the cost easily reaches €11-14 per 100 km. Over time, especially for those who commute or drive often, this difference becomes noticeable. Lower energy costs are one of the strongest economic reasons for electric cars and have a direct impact on your monthly budget.
Cost per 100 km: electric cars vs traditional cars
When evaluating mobility costs, the importance of the “cost per 100 km” parameter is often overlooked. This metric eliminates any marketing aspect and focuses on real usage.
This simple comparison answers another common question, viz how much does it cost to travel 100 km with an electric car. Even under less than ideal charging conditions, electric cars remain cheaper to operate. Add to that reduced maintenance costs (no oil changes, fewer moving parts, less brake wear) and the total cost of ownership continues to tilt in favor of electric mobility.
Renting an electric car in Italy: almost the same price as traditional cars
One of the biggest surprises of 2025 is how affordable renting an electric vehicle has become. According to current averages in the Italian market, renting an electric car now costs around €38 per day. For context, SUVs cost on average €39 per day, while compact petrol cars are around €29 per day. The gap between the rental of electric vehicles and that of traditional vehicles is no longer so marked, especially if you take into account the fuel savings during the rental period.
There are also exceptional offers that challenge the idea that electric cars are “only premium”. Compact electric models such as the Fiat 500e can be rented for around €24 a day, making them competitive even compared to small petrol cars. Larger electric vehicles, such as the MG Marvel, cost on average around €27 per day, offering space and comfort at prices that would have been unthinkable just a few years ago.
This price change explains why electric vehicle rental is growing so quickly in Italy. Both tourists and business travelers are discovering that driving an electric car doesn’t require you to pay more, but sometimes even means spending less overall.
Buying an electric vehicle versus a traditional car: the gap is rapidly closing
Another key concern is how much does an electric car cost compared to a traditional car. While it’s true that electric vehicles once carried a significant upfront premium, that gap has narrowed significantly.
Today, many well-equipped electric models are priced between €25,000 and €35,000, in direct competition with petrol and hybrid cars in the same segment. Models such as the Fiat 500e, Dacia Spring, MG4 and Renault Megane E-Tech have made electric driving accessible to a much wider audience. When regional incentives and benefits apply, the actual purchase price can drop even further.
Meanwhile, internal combustion cars are becoming more expensive due to stricter emissions regulations and rising manufacturing costs. As a result, buyers often find that the price difference between an electric vehicle and a comparable gasoline-powered car is now minimal, and sometimes non-existent.
When you combine the purchase price with the lower operating and maintenance costs, the total cost of ownership over a five to eight year period often favors electric vehicles. This is especially true for city drivers, families, and anyone who drives consistent miles.
A different perception than reality
Despite these improvements, many consumers still think electric vehicles are too expensive. This perception persists because it is based on outdated information. The market has evolved rapidly: batteries are cheaper, competition has increased, and rental companies are aggressively expanding their electric fleets. The result is a new reality in which electric cars are no longer a niche or aspirational product. They are a practical and economical option for daily mobility.
