The model is intentionally inspectable. Change an input and the system recalculates in the browser—no hidden lead form, ranking score, or dealership logic.
monthly kWh = monthly miles ÷ vehicle mi/kWh × 1.10
The 1.10 multiplier represents a 10% AC charging-loss assumption. Temperature, battery conditioning, speed, accessories, and charger efficiency can move real consumption above or below the model.
charging cost = monthly kWh × energy price
The starting home rate is a rounded state-level planning baseline informed by U.S. Energy Information Administration residential price data. It is not a tariff quote. Public DC fast-charging defaults to $0.56/kWh and is fully adjustable.
gas cost = monthly miles ÷ 29 MPG × gasoline price
The baseline vehicle is fixed at 29 MPG for a transparent comparison. The calculator focuses on energy and excludes purchase price, depreciation, financing, insurance, repairs, registration, and maintenance.
Off-peak is modeled at 62% of the selected home rate, peak at 135%, and shoulder hours at 100%. These are scenario multipliers, not claims about a specific utility. Confirm tariffs, fixed fees, demand charges, enrollment rules, and meter requirements directly with the serving utility.
Federal status is based on IRS guidance. State and utility discovery starts with the U.S. Department of Energy AFDC database. Vehicle purchase credits under sections 30D and 25E are not modeled for acquisitions after September 30, 2025.
Federal 30C does not cover equipment placed in service after June 30, 2026. Earlier eligible installations may still qualify when filing, subject to location and tax rules. Sources and review dates.
session cost = battery kWh × 0.60 × energy price
The 20% to 80% estimate represents energy delivered to the battery. Unlike the monthly driving estimate, it does not add the 10% charging-loss allowance. It excludes session fees and parking charges. Actual billed energy may be higher.
Review dates and the age of the state planning baseline are listed in our sources and editorial policy. Updates require a source check; there is no live tariff or incentive feed. The August 2026 baseline is not a guarantee of current prices or open funding.