A husband-and-wife duo who traded their gas-powered vehicles for two Teslas were surprised by the impact on their electricity bills.
Credit: MediaNews Group/Orange County Register via Getty
In today's ever-changing and environmentally conscious landscape, electric vehicles (EVs) are undoubtedly on the rise. In fact, per IEA.org, nearly one in five cars sold globally in 2023 was electric - with the number of EVs sold in 2024 expected to increase by 20%.
However, despite all the incredible things we've heard about going electric, some people are still opting to stick to the status quo and remain loyal to their gas/diesel-powered cars. But one couple's recent venture into EVs may have you thinking twice next time you're in a car show room.
The couple - consisting of YouTuber Mac's Tech Toy Box and his wife - decided to ditch their gas guzzlers and embrace the EV lifestyle two years ago, purchasing two Tesla Model Y vehicles within months of each other.
What they discovered about their expenses after the switch left them stunned.
An Unexpected Electric Bill Surprise
Before making the leap to electric, the couple’s monthly electricity bill averaged $225. After they purchased their first Tesla and started driving up to 500 miles a week, their bill actually dropped to $214.
Mac noted this decrease occurred between February and June, cooler months when air conditioning use — a known battery drainer — was minimal.
Following the addition of their second Tesla, their bill rose to $276. While this represented an increase from their pre-Tesla usage, the added $51 per month paled in comparison to what they had previously been spending on gas.
How EVs Saved Them Money
However, the couple insists they're now better off financially.
Before switching to EVs, Mac estimated his Mustang’s gas consumption cost him around $160 per month. Assuming his wife’s costs were similar, their total gas expenses reached $320 monthly.
By switching to electric and charging their Teslas primarily at home, the couple saved significantly. Home charging, compared to the higher fees associated with Tesla’s public superchargers, kept their costs low.
According to SolarReviews, charging a Tesla Model Y Performance at home can cost as little as $7.84 or as much as $42.75, depending on electricity rates and usage. Public superchargers, in contrast, can cost anywhere from $0.11 to $0.60 per kilowatt-hour, with fees varying by location.
EV Savings Confirmed by Others
Mac’s experience mirrors findings from other Tesla owners. For instance, one YouTuber calculated that their Tesla cost just $375 to charge over the course of a year — breaking down to an astonishing $0.023 per mile.
Data from Consumer Reports supports these claims, noting that EV owners spend about 60% less on fuel compared to drivers of gas-powered vehicles. With gas prices averaging $3,000 annually per driver, the savings can add up quickly.
EVs are on the rise all over the world. Credit: Gary Hershorn / Getty
EVs on the Rise
It’s no wonder that more than 2.5 million EVs are now on America’s roads. Cost savings, combined with environmental benefits, continue to attract drivers to electric vehicles.
For Mac and his wife, the transition to Tesla has been a revelation — not just for its sleek design and technology, but for the unexpected financial benefits it brought to their household.
But is this enough to convince you to go electric? Let us know in the comments!