Launched in Malaysia last November, the Ora Good Cat from Great Wall Motors is one of the cheapest electric vehicles currently on sale here. If you’re wondering what the Good Cat is like to drive, check out our video review of the EV here.
In this post, we’re discussing if it is actually cheaper to charge an EV versus driving a petrol-powered car. Heading straight into the numbers, the Good Cat has an energy consumption of 15 kWh/100 km, which, when considering the domestic rate of RM0.57/kWh, equates to RM8.55/100 km, or 8.55 sen/km.
Meanwhile, at the current subsidised RON 95 price of RM2.05/litre and assuming a petrol-powered car has an average fuel consumption of 15 km/litre, you’re looking at a cost of 13.67 sen/litre. Over 24,000 km in a year (averaging 2,000 km a month), the cost of charging an EV would be RM2,052 compared to the internal combustion engine car that carries a bill of RM3,280.
The costs do add up over a year, and this is before taking into account the scenario should fuel subsidies end, which could see RON 95 prices go up to RM3/litre, bringing up the annual fuel cost to RM4,800.
Of course, this comparison is based on current conditions and can be dependent on a person’s driving style and other factors that may change in the future. For now, what are your thoughts on the matter? Is it worthwhile to make the switch to an EV now?
GALLERY: Great Wall Ora Good Cat 500 Ultra in Malaysia
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AI-generated Summary ✨
Comments highlight that while EVs like the GWM Ora Good Cat have lower running costs and environmental benefits, the high purchase price, battery replacement costs, and limited infrastructure make them less affordable, especially for lower-income groups. Concerns are raised about battery life spanning around 10-12 years, resale value decline, and hidden costs such as tires and charger fees. Some believe EVs are more suitable as secondary cars, and their economic advantage is more evident with solar energy use. Overall, opinions are mixed, with many emphasizing current high costs and infrastructure limitations.