Tata Nexon EV vs Petrol Running Cost Comparison for Long Distance Travel

Electric vehicles (EVs) have become a practical choice for Indian buyers as fuel prices rise and EV technology advances. Petrol and diesel cars remain common, but EVs now offer strong reasons to switch, especially when considering running costs over long distances.

Key Highlights

• Tata Nexon petrol costs Rs 7.41 per km for fuel on a 150 km journey.
• Tata Nexon EV costs Rs 2.89 per km using DC fast charging at Jio-bp stations.
• Switching to Nexon EV saves Rs 4.52 per km compared to the petrol version.
• Over 7,000 Jio-bp charging points support long-distance EV travel in India.

Cost Comparison: Petrol vs Electric Nexon

To understand the difference, we compare the Tata Nexon in both petrol and electric versions. The petrol-powered Tata Nexon delivers an average real-world fuel economy of 15 km per litre. For a typical 150 km journey between Mumbai and Pune, the running cost is calculated based on current fuel prices.

At this efficiency, the petrol Nexon incurs a fuel cost of Rs 7.41 per km. This figure reflects only the fuel expense and does not include maintenance or other ownership costs.

For the same journey, the Tata Nexon EV uses electricity instead of petrol. Assuming a realistic consumption rate of 7 km per kWh, and using DC fast charging at one of the 7,000+ Jio-bp charging stations in India, the running cost is significantly lower.

The standard charging rate at Jio-bp Pulse stations is Rs 24 per kWh. However, with the all-India Pulse Max loyalty programme, this can drop to Rs 20.25 per kWh. Even at the standard rate, the Nexon EV costs just Rs 2.89 per km to operate on this route.

Long-Term Savings and Charging Network

This difference results in a saving of Rs 4.52 per km when driving the Nexon EV compared to the petrol version. Over an ownership period of 100,000 km, this adds up to more than Rs 4.52 lakh in savings on running costs alone.

The Jio-bp Pulse charging network supports over 7,000 charging points across India. This extensive network helps reduce range anxiety and makes long-distance travel more convenient for EV owners.

Standardised pricing at Jio-bp Pulse stations ensures predictable costs for EV drivers. The loyalty programme offers further benefits, including up to 600 kWh of charging at reduced rates over a validity of five months. Loyalty points earned can be redeemed for benefits at Wildbean Cafe, as well as for EV charging and fuel purchases at select Jio-bp outlets.

Conclusion

The Tata Nexon EV offers a much lower per-kilometre running cost compared to its petrol counterpart. With a growing charging infrastructure and additional loyalty benefits, EV ownership is becoming more viable for long-distance travel in India.

CarBike 360 Says

For long-distance travel, the Tata Nexon EV proves significantly more economical in terms of running cost, despite slightly longer charging stops. The petrol variant offers quicker refuelling convenience but at a higher cost per kilometre. Ultimately, the choice depends on driving patterns, charging access, and budget priorities, with the EV emerging as the smarter option for cost-conscious buyers.