Best EV for Cheapest to Run — Novated Lease
The best electric vehicles for cheapest to run, ranked by novated lease value. Costs calculated at $80K salary.
Top 5 EVs for Cheapest to Run
| Rank | Car | Price | Fortnightly | Annual Saving | Why |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | BYD Dolphin | $38,890.00 | $397.23 | $4,012.05 | $2,550/yr total running costs |
| #2 | MG 4 | $38,990.00 | $394.15 | $3,988.27 | $2,450/yr total running costs |
| #3 | MG ZS EV | $43,990.00 | $438.38 | $4,447.18 | $2,600/yr total running costs |
| #4 | BYD Atto 3 | $47,381.00 | $474.08 | $4,805.86 | $2,850/yr total running costs |
| #5 | Volvo EX30 | $49,990.00 | $507.62 | $5,132.27 | $3,200/yr total running costs |
#1: BYD Dolphin
Why it suits cheapest to run
$2,550/yr total running costs
Range: 427 km | Battery: 44.9 kWh
Novated Lease at $80K
- Fortnightly: $397.23
- Annual saving: $4,012.05
- 5-year saving: $20,060.25
- FBT: Exempt
#2: MG 4
Why it suits cheapest to run
$2,450/yr total running costs
Range: 450 km | Battery: 64 kWh
Novated Lease at $80K
- Fortnightly: $394.15
- Annual saving: $3,988.27
- 5-year saving: $19,941.35
- FBT: Exempt
#3: MG ZS EV
Why it suits cheapest to run
$2,600/yr total running costs
Range: 440 km | Battery: 72.6 kWh
Novated Lease at $80K
- Fortnightly: $438.38
- Annual saving: $4,447.18
- 5-year saving: $22,235.89
- FBT: Exempt
#4: BYD Atto 3
Why it suits cheapest to run
$2,850/yr total running costs
Range: 420 km | Battery: 60.5 kWh
Novated Lease at $80K
- Fortnightly: $474.08
- Annual saving: $4,805.86
- 5-year saving: $24,029.28
- FBT: Exempt
#5: Volvo EX30
Why it suits cheapest to run
$3,200/yr total running costs
Range: 476 km | Battery: 69 kWh
Novated Lease at $80K
- Fortnightly: $507.62
- Annual saving: $5,132.27
- 5-year saving: $25,661.35
- FBT: Exempt
Related Pages
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best EV for cheapest to run?
BYD Dolphin is our top pick for cheapest to run — $2,550/yr total running costs.
How much does it cost to novated lease an EV for cheapest to run?
On an $80K salary, the top-ranked EV for cheapest to run costs approximately $397.23 fortnightly.
Are all EVs suitable for cheapest to run?
No. Range, charging speed, boot space, and towing capacity vary significantly. Our ranking considers the specific needs of cheapest to run to find the best match.
Is an EV better than a petrol car for cheapest to run?
For most cheapest to run scenarios, yes. EVs cost 60-70% less to run per kilometre and qualify for FBT exemption on novated leases, saving thousands per year.
What salary do I need for an EV novated lease?
Any salary works, but you see meaningful savings from around $50,000. The sweet spot is $80K-$120K where the 30-37% marginal rate creates significant tax savings.
Want exact numbers for your situation?
Use our full novated lease calculator with your exact salary, car price, and lease term.
Open Novated Lease CalculatorEstimates based on 2025-26 Australian tax rates. Actual savings depend on your employer arrangement, residual value, and exact running costs. Car prices are drive-away estimates and may vary by dealer. This is general information only, not financial advice. Consult a financial adviser for personal guidance.