The Russian electric car market has recently demonstrated rapid growth: about 18,000 cars were sold last year, and interest in individual models increased several times. In 2025, the pace slowed down - the situation was affected by the abolition of free charging in Moscow and the increase in electricity tariffs. Nevertheless, electric cars continue to attract attention, and the main question remains the same: how much more profitable are they than traditional cars in real operation.
Even with paid public charging, electric cars retain significant financial advantages. In 35 regions of Russia, owners of such transport are exempt from paying transport tax. A zero rate is valid in a number of subjects up to a certain capacity or a 50% discount is provided. Given the high power of electric motors, the savings can be significant, and the list of regions with tax incentives is gradually expanding.
Parking privileges also play an important role. In Moscow, electric cars can use street parking for free if the vehicle is officially registered as electric. Similar benefits apply to municipal parking lots in St. Petersburg, as well as in certain cities where free zones are provided at charging stations. Additionally, until the end of this year, owners of Russian-made electric vehicles are exempt from paying for travel on federal toll roads.
From the point of view of maintenance, electric cars look much simpler and cheaper. They do not need regular replacement of engine oil, fuel and oil filters, belts and working fluids. In fact, the regulation is limited to replacing the cabin filter and seasonal tire maintenance. The brake system wears out more slowly due to recuperation. On average, the annual cost of maintaining an electric car is about 6 thousand rubles, while a car with an internal combustion engine requires almost twice as much.
If we compare the total cost of ownership with the same mileage, the difference becomes especially clear. At 10 thousand kilometers per year, an electric car in Moscow costs approximately 35–40 thousand rubles, including charging, parking, maintenance and taxes. A similar gasoline car requires about 260–270 thousand rubles, most of which goes to fuel and paid parking. Annual savings can exceed 200 thousand rubles, and over several years of ownership, the difference reaches hundreds of thousands.
The cost of energy deserves special attention. After the introduction of fees at city charging stations, electricity costs have increased, but even at a rate of 20 rubles per kilowatt, charging an electric car is much cheaper than refueling with gasoline. At the same time, about half of electric car owners in Russia live in private houses and can charge at household rates, which are especially beneficial at night. In this case, the annual cost of "fuel" is reduced several times.
Thus, an electric car remains a more economical option in everyday use, even taking into account the increase in charging tariffs. Tax and parking benefits, low maintenance costs and cheaper energy create a tangible difference in favor of electric traction. With sufficient infrastructure and suitable operating conditions, an electric car turns out to be not only environmentally friendly, but also a financially sound choice.