Is buying an electric car worth it?

In recent years, electric cars have been gaining increasing popularity, not only for their performance but also for the economic and environmental benefits they offer. The transition to electric mobility is supported by a range of advantages that go beyond simple cost savings. Imagine a future where cities are quieter, the air is cleaner, and you can significantly reduce fuel and maintenance costs. If you are curious to discover all the reasons why an electric car can make a difference, keep reading.

Electric charging in Italy in 2025

A recent market survey by Idealista (2024) reveals that only 38% of Italians have a garage with a dedicated electricity meter. If you fall within this percentage, however, you have an advantage when embracing sustainable mobility: savings.

Moreover, if you need to charge on the road, there is no need to worry: as of December 2024, Italy has reached around 65,000 public charging points, placing it among the most virtuous countries in terms of the ratio of available charging points to circulating electric vehicles. This figure highlights the significant progress made in building an accessible charging infrastructure.

Economic and environmental benefits

Electric cars are known for their significantly lower cost per kilometer compared to internal combustion vehicles, mainly due to the lower cost of electricity compared to traditional fuels and the higher efficiency of electric motors.

Maintenance of an electric car is also less expensive thanks to the reduced complexity of electric motors, which have fewer components subject to wear compared to internal combustion engines.

According to data released by Consumer Reports:

• Fuel cost savings: owners of electric vehicles with a range of 250 miles or more (i.e., over 400 km) are able to carry out 92% of their charging at home, needing only six public fast charges per year. On average, an electric vehicle driver will spend 60% less to power their car compared to someone driving a petrol car.

• Maintenance cost savings: owners of electric vehicles spend half as much as petrol vehicle owners on repairs and maintenance.

• Electric vehicles also benefit from additional economic advantages, such as exemption from or reduction of ownership tax (road tax), which may vary by region and, in some cases, be permanent. In addition, there may be a reduction in the Provincial Registration Tax in some provinces, access to limited traffic zones (ZTLs), and exemption from paid parking in several cities.

How much does it cost to charge at home?

The cost of home charging, expressed in euros per kWh, depends on several factors, such as:

• The energy price (variable or fixed, single-rate or multi-rate);

• The commercialization and sales cost (CCV);

• Transport charges, meter management, system charges, and excise duties.

In the Italian Free market, the price of electricity ranges between €0.23 and €0.30 per kWh, which naturally corresponds to what is shown on the bill, making home charging extremely convenient compared to traditional refueling at service stations. If you also have a photovoltaic system, you could even charge your vehicle at zero cost thanks to self-produced energy.

Please note that electric vehicle consumption is expressed in kWh per 100 km.

And what about public charging?

Charging at public infrastructures comes with higher costs, but it remains very useful for trips or for those who do not have a private parking space. On average:

• AC standard charging stations: €0.50–€0.60 per kWh
• DC fast charging: €0.60–€0.90 per kWh

Of course, cost variability depends on the type of stations and the corresponding charging speed they provide, that is, the level of convenience they offer.

It is possible to charge your vehicle using three different types of tariffs: pay-per-use, generally the least cost-effective; prepaid kWh packages; fixed monthly subscriptions, with a more convenient price per kWh.

In addition, when using fast and ultra-fast direct current charging stations, it is possible to pay for charging directly with a credit or debit card using the POS.

Charging your electric car at home: everything you need to know

Charging your electric car at home is one of the most convenient and efficient solutions for those who choose sustainable mobility. But how does it work exactly? Let’s take a closer look at everything you need to know: from the technical requirements of the meter, to the installation methods of a home charging station, and even the benefits of rental options. To make the most of your electric vehicle’s potential, directly from home.

Range and charging times

Public charging infrastructures are growing rapidly, with more and more charging stations available throughout the country. The daily use of an electric car is becoming increasingly simple and practical thanks to the better coverage of the charging network.

Despite this, one of the main doubts regarding electric cars is range. However, the most recent models offer increasingly greater ranges, often exceeding 300 kilometres with a single charge. This is more than sufficient for most daily journeys. Charging times are improving thanks to rapid charging technologies; fast charge columns, with a charging power between 22 kW and 50 kW, allow a vehicle to be charged in less than an hour and, in addition, offer integrated cables suitable for different needs.

“Range anxiety” is often unfounded

Many people fear being stranded with a flat battery. In reality, according to a survey conducted by Nielsen Media Germany in August 2024, seven out of ten Italians travel less than 40 km a day. The average range of an electric car in Italy is 250–400 km, therefore sufficient for several days of urban use.

Examples:

• City cars (Fiat 500e, Renault Twingo): 150–250 km
  
• Compact cars/sedans (Tesla Model 3, Mégane E-Tech): 300–450 km
  
• Premium SUVs (BMW iX, Tesla Model Y): 400–550+ km

Enel Drive, an all-inclusive package

With Enel Drive, you too can switch to electric mobility, taking advantage of long-term rental with Arval Service Lease Italia S.p.A. With this offer, you will have ordinary and extraordinary maintenance, RCA insurance coverage, fire, theft and further damage coverage with penalties, 24/7 assistance and roadside assistance included in the price. With the connected Waybox charging station, which you receive on a free loan for use, you can charge your electric car directly from your home.

Enel for the switch to electric mobility

Enel offers complete solutions for every type of need, from car rental to domestic charging, including solutions for those who need to charge away from home. If you choose the convenience of charging at home, you can discover our selection of Waybox, with dedicated promotions and further benefits for your smart charging.