Embarking on a cross-continental drive in an electric vehicle can feel like stepping into the future—until you crunch the numbers. On a recent 2,500 km journey from Berlin to Madrid, we discovered that, despite the sleek tech and quiet motors, diesel still holds the edge in pure cost-efficiency. Here’s what happened when a team of motoring journalists put two Long Range Teslas through their paces against hypothetical petrol and diesel rivals.
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A 2,500 km Journey in a Tesla Electric Vehicle
Last summer, I joined colleagues behind the wheel of a Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive and a Model 3 Highland, both in their Long Range guises. We relied solely on Tesla’s Superchargers, letting the onboard planner map out our recharging stops every 200–300 km. More often than not, we were ready to roll before our coffee breaks ended—a small mercy on long motorway stretches, though our battery top-ups still took longer than a quick diesel refill.
Diesel Emerges as the Most Cost-Effective Choice
To compare costs, we turned to the European Commission’s latest energy-price averages: around €1.80 per litre for diesel and €1.70 for petrol in 2025 . Assuming consumption of 5.5 L/100 km for diesel and 7 L/100 km for petrol, we found:
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Charging both Teslas for the full 2,500 km cost roughly €318 in Supercharger fees.
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A diesel car covering the same distance would have needed about €264, saving €54.
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A petrol vehicle at 7 L/100 km would set you back around €402, making diesel the clear leader in fuel economy.
Despite our range anxiety easing on each Supercharging break, drivers keen on minimising downtime would probably stick with diesel.
Considering Total Cost of Ownership
Of course, our figures only account for fuel versus electricity. According to the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association, diesel cars often carry higher maintenance and service bills over time. Those total cost of ownership figures can narrow the gap—or even tip it back towards EVs—especially if you mix in slower, cheaper chargers overnight.
Every Driver’s Needs Are Different
Whether you prioritise environmental impact, budget or sheer convenience, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Diesel may currently rule the road in terms of upfront fuel savings and quick refuelling, but EVs offer silent, emissions-free cruising and lower running costs in other areas. As the market diversifies, it pays to weigh your personal priorities before your next long-distance drive.
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Felix Marlowe manages Belles and Gals’ vibrant social media platforms. With expertise in social engagement and viral marketing, Felix creates content that sparks conversation and keeps followers coming back for more. From celebrity news to trending challenges, Felix makes sure our social media stays at the forefront of pop culture.
