EV vs ICE

Explore the significant differences between electric vehicles (EV) and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.

Nissan LEAF driving at night

Electric Vehicles (EV)


When people discuss electric vehicles, they’re typically referring to Battery-Electric Vehicles (BEVs), which are powered exclusively by electricity. EVs use a large battery pack that supplies energy to an electric motor (or motors) to power the vehicle.1

Red Nissan ICE vehicle

Internal combustion engines (ICE)


An internal combustion engine vehicle is an automobile powered by conventional, oil-derived resources such as gasoline or diesel fuel.

Let's talk about key differences

Power Source


An ICE vehicle lifts the fuel inside the cylinder with the help of a spark plug and pushes the piston. The piston then rotates the crankshaft. Unlike gas-powered vehicles, electric vehicles do not require internal combustion engines to operate.1 They are outfitted with an electric motor (or motors) and a rechargeable battery.  

Maintenance Cost


EVs may require less frequent ongoing maintenance and may have lower routine maintenance costs than ICE vehicles. This is because all-electric motors have fewer moving parts than ICE engines, and they require fewer fluids, such as engine oil, that require regular monitoring and replenishing. Because EVs use regenerative braking, typically brake wear is also reduced.

Energy & Fuel Cost


With an EV, you won’t need to fill up your tank at the gas station, but you will need to charge your vehicle, which may increase your electric bill if you charge at home. When you charge, where you live, and what type of charger you use are all factors that will affect your electric bill. Electricity costs can vary significantly by region.1,2

EV Charging Tips:

  • Charging your EV overnight could help you save on charging costs1
  • Public charging stations may come with an associated cost, so home charging may be a more convenient and more affordable option2 
  • The cost of charging your EV at a public charging station depends on the charge point network and location2

Insurance & Costs


Since EVs may be more expensive to buy and repair, insurance rates may be higher. That said, the potential savings on gas and tax incentives may offset the extra cost.3

Calculate your potential electric incentives

In some states, going EV may also come with potential tax credits, rebates, or other incentives for eligible vehicles.3

Calculate ARIYA incentives Calculate LEAF incentives

Going EV

Side view of ARIYA

Limited availability. Contact your local dealer for inventory information.4

EV Benefits


Compared to gas-powered vehicles, EVs come with many real-world benefits.

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Front view on Nissan LEAF driving



Charge, Range & Battery


As battery technology advances, range increases, and charging becomes more convenient, more drivers than ever are going EV.1

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Up-close view of ARIYA

Limited availability. Contact your local dealer for inventory information.4

FAQs


More questions? Learn more about Nissan EV. 


FAQs

1Charging time and capacity may vary based on power source, ambient temperature, battery temperature, condition, and age, and use of vehicle accessories while charging. For Level 1 home charging use only a 110-120 volt, 15-amp dedicated outlet for charging. For Level 2 home charging use only a 240 volt charging dock on a dedicated outlet for charging. See Customer Disclosure Form for details. 

2Public charging networks are provided by independent companies and are not within Nissan’s control. Availability of charging stations not guaranteed.

3The incentives referenced and estimator tool results are for informational and/or illustrative purposes only. This information does not constitute tax or legal advice. All persons considering use of available incentives and additional perks should consult with their own tax or legal professional to determine eligibility, specific amount of incentives available, if any, and further details. The incentives and additional perks are not within Nissan’s control and are subject to change without notice. Interested parties should confirm the accuracy of the information before relying on it to make a purchase. [Residency restrictions may apply.]

4Contact your local dealer for inventory information. Pre-production model shown. Actual production model may vary.