Automotive

EV Charging Cost Calculator

Estimate the grid energy and electricity cost required to add a chosen amount of energy to an EV battery.

Planning estimate only. Verify product specifications, field measurements, safety requirements, and applicable codes before buying or building.
Reviewed September 6, 2026Runs in your browser

Enter your numbers

How this calculator works

Grid energy = battery energy added ÷ charging efficiency. Cost = grid energy × electricity rate + session fee.

Worked example

Adding 50 kWh at 90% efficiency requires about 55.56 kWh from the grid and costs about $8.89 at $0.16/kWh.

Sources & assumptions

Grid energy is battery energy divided by charging efficiency. The U.S. Department of Energy notes that charging involves energy loss; actual efficiency varies by charger, vehicle, temperature, and battery conditioning. See DOE charging-loss data.

Frequently asked questions

Why is grid energy higher than battery energy?

Charging loses some energy as heat and through power conversion, battery conditioning, and vehicle systems.

Where do I find my electricity rate?

Use the energy charge from your utility bill and account for time-of-use pricing or public-charger fees when applicable.

Related calculators