How much can I save when I switch to an EV?

When it comes to switching from petrol to electric, we know that the most common question getting asked at our Splend Hubs is "how much can I really save?". 

Electric vehicles don’t just reduce your fuel bill. They unlock savings in key areas that really matter when you drive for a living. From steady energy costs to toll discounts and access to higher-paying Uber categories, moving into an electric car can make a big difference to your weekly income. 

Where am I saving? 

Switching to an EV isn’t just about going green — it’s about putting more money back in your pocket. Here's how driving a Splend EV like the Kia EV5 Long Range or the Tesla Model Y helps you save where it counts. 

Fuel is one of your biggest weekly expenses 

And that’s where EVs shine. 

Petrol prices in Australia are unpredictable, especially in metro areas. Charging an EV — whether at home, at a public charging station, or even using rapid charging networks — offers a more stable and affordable alternative. 

Let’s break it down.

If you drive around 1,000 km per week: 

• A petrol car using 8L/100km at $2.00/L will cost you around $160/week in fuel. 

• Charging an EV at home could cost as little as $20–$30/week, depending on your energy provider and time of use. 

That’s up to $140 per week — or $7,000 a year — that stays in your pocket instead of going into the pump. 

Want to save on charging costs? Checkout the BMW i5 with Splend

Need help planning your charging? 

Try the PlugShare app, which shows real-time availability of EV chargers near you. Combine this with Chargefox and Evie networks for access to thousands of fast-charging locations across Australia. 

Lower servicing and maintenance costs 

EVs are simpler to maintain because they have fewer moving parts than petrol or diesel cars. That means: 

• No oil changes 

• No spark plugs or fuel filters 

• Less wear on brake pads, thanks to regenerative braking 

Less maintenance means fewer repair surprises and more time earning on the road — not sitting in a workshop. 

Toll and tax incentives 

Some states in Australia offer cost reductions on EV rego and stamp duty, which can save you even more over time. 

In NSW, for example, EVs under $78,000 are currently eligible for free registration and stamp duty exemptions. Plus, many EVs qualify for rideshare fleet toll discounts, particularly on Sydney and Melbourne’s busiest toll roads. 

Access to premium rideshare categories 

Switching to an EV doesn’t just help you save — it helps you earn more. 

In many cities, EVs are eligible for higher-paying Uber categories like Uber Comfort, Uber Comfort Electric, or even Uber Premier. Driving one of Splend’s Uber-ready EVs — like the Tesla Model 3, Polestar 2 — gives you access to these categories, plus a quiet, clean, modern vehicle your passengers will appreciate. 

That often means better ratings, more tips, and a more professional rideshare image. 

Why EVs make sense for Rideshare in Australia 

If you're comparing EV vs petrol car costs, the difference in running costs is hard to ignore — especially when you're driving full-time. For rideshare drivers, fuel and servicing can easily become two of your biggest expenses. That’s why more drivers are turning to electric vehicles not only for their environmental benefits, but for the real savings they deliver week after week. 

When you factor in cheap EV charging options in Australia, such as off-peak home charging and networks like Chargefox and Evie, you're looking at a massive cut in your weekly rideshare fuel costs. For most rideshare drivers, switching to an EV can save up to $300–$400 per month on fuel alone — not to mention savings on servicing and repairs. 

At Splend, we offer some of the best EVs for Uber drivers in Australia, all Uber-eligible, including models like the premium BMW i5. Whether you're working in UberX, Comfort, or Premier, we’ve got the right electric vehicle to suit your goals. 

Try an EV with no commitment 

With Splend’s Flexi Try plan, you don’t need to buy an EV upfront. You’ll get access to a late-model, Uber-ready electric vehicle with damage and loss cover, rego, servicing, and support all included in one simple weekly payment — and experience the savings for yourself. 

Chat with the Splend team today to find the right electric vehicle for your driving goals. 

About Splend

Splend makes car ownership easier, more affordable and more accessible for rideshare drivers by building everything they need to earn more and pay less into one affordable weekly payment. It’s smooth driving, with no surprises and the lowest total ownership cost you’ll find – which is how car ownership for rideshare drivers should be.

For more information about Splend, make an appointment and drop by to your local Splend Hub, email us, or say hello on 1800 775 363.