Electric vs. Petrol Costs: November 2025's Best Value for Aussie Drivers

With petrol prices fluctuating and electric vehicle (EV) adoption on the rise, Australian motorists are increasingly asking: which offers the best value for money in November 2025? This in-depth analysis examines the current costs of fuelling petrol vehicles versus charging EVs, providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision.

The State of Petrol Prices in November 2025

Petrol prices continue to be a significant household expense for many Australians. As of today, November 2025, prices vary considerably across capital cities. For example, in Sydney, Unleaded 91 (U91) averages 174.40 cpl, while Premium 98 (P98) sits at 198.54 cpl, based on our latest data. Diesel (DSL) in Sydney is currently 185.32 cpl. These variations highlight the importance of shopping around to find the best deals.

Brisbane motorists are experiencing higher fuel costs, with Unleaded 91 averaging 202.34 cpl and Premium 98 reaching 226.84 cpl. E10 offers a slight saving at 199.81 cpl. Meanwhile, Perth enjoys relatively lower prices, with Unleaded 91 at 173.57 cpl. Adelaide currently boasts some of the lowest fuel prices across the country, with Unleaded 91 at just 165.61 cpl and Diesel at 179.00 cpl.

Canberra drivers are paying 193.76 cpl for Diesel, a significant difference compared to Adelaide's 179 cpl. In Hobart, Diesel prices are averaging 187.06 cpl. Darwin's Premium 98 fuel is priced at a hefty 222.67 cpl. These figures demonstrate the geographical disparities impacting petrol costs across Australia.

One notable trend is the difference between fuel grades. In Sydney, Premium 95 (191.29 cpl) costs 9.7% more than Unleaded 91 (174.4 cpl). Brisbane motorists can save 1.3% by choosing E10 (199.81 cpl) over Unleaded 91 (202.34 cpl).

The Cost of Charging Electric Vehicles

The cost of charging an EV depends on several factors, including the size of the battery, the electricity tariff, and whether you're charging at home or using a public charging station. Home charging is generally the most cost-effective option, especially if you have solar panels.

Public charging stations offer varying rates. Fast chargers are convenient for quick top-ups, but they typically cost more per kilowatt-hour (kWh) than standard chargers. Many charging networks offer subscription plans that can reduce the cost of public charging.

To accurately compare the cost of fuelling a petrol vehicle with charging an EV, you need to consider your individual driving habits, vehicle fuel efficiency, and electricity consumption. However, generally speaking, EVs offer significant savings in running costs, particularly for those who primarily charge at home.

Making the Switch: Factors to Consider

Beyond the immediate costs of fuelling or charging, there are several other factors to consider when deciding between a petrol vehicle and an EV:

• Purchase Price: EVs generally have a higher upfront cost than comparable petrol vehicles, although government incentives can help offset this difference.
• Maintenance: EVs typically require less maintenance than petrol vehicles, as they have fewer moving parts.
• Environmental Impact: EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, contributing to cleaner air in urban areas.
• Driving Experience: Many drivers enjoy the smooth, quiet, and responsive driving experience of EVs.
• Range Anxiety: Planning longer trips requires considering the availability of charging stations and the vehicle's range.

Actionable Advice for Motorists

1. Track Your Fuel Consumption: Monitor your fuel usage to get a clear picture of your current petrol expenses.
2. Compare Fuel Prices: Use tools to find the cheapest petrol stations in your area.
3. Consider Your Driving Needs: Evaluate your daily commute, weekend trips, and overall driving habits to determine whether an EV would be a suitable option.
4. Research EV Incentives: Investigate government rebates and other incentives available for EV purchases in your state or territory.
5. Calculate Total Cost of Ownership: Factor in the purchase price, fuel/electricity costs, maintenance, and other expenses to compare the overall cost of owning a petrol vehicle versus an EV over its lifespan.

Save Money on Petrol with FuelRadar

In today's market, finding the cheapest petrol can significantly impact your budget. FuelRadar provides real-time fuel prices across Australia, empowering you to make informed decisions and save money. With FuelRadar, you can quickly locate the stations offering the best deals near you. Currently, Unleaded 91 prices are 22.2% higher in Brisbane (202.34 cpl) than in Adelaide (165.61 cpl). Premium 98 prices vary significantly across Australia, with Brisbane (226.84 cpl) being 19.3% more expensive than Adelaide (190.22 cpl). Diesel is currently 8.2% more expensive in Canberra (193.76 cpl) compared to Adelaide (179 cpl). Adelaide currently offers the cheapest prices for 6 different fuel types, making it Australia's most affordable capital city for motorists. The top 3 cheapest capital cities for Unleaded 91 are currently Adelaide (165.61 cpl), Perth (173.57 cpl), and Sydney (174.4 cpl). In Sydney, Premium 95 (191.29 cpl) costs 9.7% more than Unleaded 91 (174.4 cpl). Brisbane motorists can save 1.3% by choosing E10 (199.81 cpl) over Unleaded 91 (202.34 cpl).

Our user-friendly interface makes it easy to compare prices and identify the best options. You can view the FuelRadar map at https://fuelradar.com.au/map to see real-time fuel prices in your area.

Conclusion

Whether an electric vehicle or a petrol vehicle offers the best value depends on individual circumstances. EVs offer long-term savings on fuelling and maintenance, while petrol vehicles may have a lower upfront cost. By carefully considering your driving needs, researching available incentives, and utilising tools like FuelRadar to find the cheapest petrol prices, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your budget and lifestyle.

Ready to start saving on fuel? Download the FuelRadar app today and find the cheapest petrol near you! FuelRadar is available on both iOS and Android. Visit https://fuelradar.com.au/download-the-fuelradar-app to download the app now.