Electric vehicle maintenance costs and real-world range performance

Electric vehicles (EVs) present a complex financial profile for owners. While maintenance costs are generally 15% to 20% lower than internal combustion engine vehicles, experts warn that significant repair costs may arise after 8 to 10 years of use. These potential expenses include repairs to suspension systems, electric drive systems, and the replacement of integrated electronic components or outdated software.

In separate testing, Carwow evaluated the real-world range of eight affordable electric models. The Hyundai Inster achieved the longest range at 341 kilometers, while the Fiat Grande Panda reached approximately 325 kilometers, exceeding its official rating by 2%. Other tested models included the Microlino, which demonstrated high efficiency, the Citroen e-C3, Leapmotor T03, Dacia Spring, and the Honda Super-N. The results highlight the importance of considering real-world performance, software support, and total cost of ownership alongside official technical specifications.