Electric vs gasoline vehicles for the last mile
In short: for urban last-mile delivery, electric vehicles cut operating costs by 40% to 70% versus gasoline — thanks to lower energy costs, reduced maintenance, and zero emissions restrictions. Gasoline only keeps an advantage on long intercity routes.
| Dimension | Electric (MOVE) | Gasoline |
|---|---|---|
| Energy cost per km | 40-70% lower than gasoline | High and volatile with fuel prices |
| Maintenance | Lower: no combustion engine, oil, or transmission | Frequent: oil, filters, clutch, exhaust |
| Local emissions | Zero direct emissions | CO₂ and pollutants on every route |
| Driving restrictions | Exempt in low-emission zones (Hoy No Circula, pico y placa) | Subject to emissions restrictions |
| Noise | Silent operation, suitable for night deliveries | Noisy |
| Range per charge/tank | Designed for urban last-mile routes | Greater range on long highway trips |
How much do you really save?
Comparison based on 4.000 km/month of urban operation
Electric consumption
Clean energy
Combustion consumption
Fossil fuel
* Costs based on energy/fuel only. Does not include maintenance, insurance, depreciation, or other operating expenses.
Net CO₂ accounts for power-grid emissions (0.18 kg/kWh) and charging efficiency (90%).
Frequently asked questions
Is an electric vehicle better than gasoline for the last mile?
For urban last-mile delivery — short, repetitive routes with many stops — an electric vehicle cuts operating costs by 40% to 70% versus gasoline, thanks to lower energy and maintenance costs, and avoids emissions-based driving restrictions.
How much do you save with an electric vehicle versus a gasoline one?
Companies save between 40% and 70% on operating costs. The savings come from electricity vs fuel, reduced maintenance (fewer moving parts), and zero fines for environmental restrictions.
When does a gasoline vehicle still make sense?
On long intercity routes that demand continuous range with no time to recharge. For urban delivery operations, electric wins on total cost of ownership (TCO).