Introducing Volteum’s new EV TCO Calculator

In March 2025, we introduced a new tool to help drivers and fleet operators make better EV decisions — the Volteum EV TCO Calculator. It is now live on our website, and it brings something many EV buyers still struggle to find: a simple, data-based way to understand how much going electric might actually cost — and save.

In this blog post, we walk through how the Calculator works, what kind of insights it offers, and how it fits into Volteum’s broader mission to make electrification easier, clearer, and more cost-efficient for everyone.

A tool designed for both quick checks and in-depth analysis

The EV TCO Calculator is a data-driven tool that helps individuals and businesses explore the cost-efficiency of electric vehicles — quickly, clearly, and based on real market data. It is built to support a wide range of use cases: for users looking for a fast estimate, it works with just a few basic inputs. At the same time, it can handle more detailed data to support deeper, more tailored evaluations. Whether used by individual drivers, fleet managers, or embedded into a digital platform, the Calculator delivers reliable cost comparisons without unnecessary complexity. It combines simplicity with analytical depth — helping users make informed decisions with confidence.

Volteum TCO Calculator used with fleet data

How it works: from basic inputs to real-time market data

The EV TCO Calculator guides users through a streamlined process that adapts to the level of detail they want to provide. Here is how it works:

• Input collection: Users can start with just 5–6 basic parameters — such as vehicle type, yearly mileage, average consumption and electricity prices. For more advanced scenarios, the tool also supports detailed data inputs, including telematics, fueling records, and depot-level operational data.

• Market data integration: The Calculator pulls in real-time market data from a range of sources. This includes electric vehicle model availability, vehicle prices, leasing and rental rates, charging costs, and country-specific market trends.

• Cost analysis: Based on the inputs and current market data, the tool calculates:
  • Total Cost of Ownership for EVs and conventional vehicles
  • Charging infrastructure costs
  • Leasing versus buying comparisons
  • Payback periods and long-term savings

This flexible setup ensures that the results are both realistic and relevant — whether used for a quick comparison or a more detailed evaluation.

What users can do with the Calculator

The EV TCO Calculator is designed to be simple to use, but flexible enough to support different needs. Depending on the use case, users can:

• compare electric vehicle models side by side, based on both financial and operational criteria;

• simulate the impact of electrification across different vehicle types, usage patterns, and driving needs;

• explore EV adoption strategies using clear, data-informed outputs — whether for a single vehicle or a small-scale fleet; or

• integrate the Calculator into websites or digital platforms, offering users an interactive way to assess their electric vehicle potential.

Whether you are an individual driver or managing a business fleet, the Calculator gives you a clear picture of how electrification might work for you — and why making that decision based on real data matters more than ever.

Volteum TCO Calculator empowering a website integration tool

Why it matters: key benefits of the EV TCO Calculator

There are many tools out there that promise to simplify EV decisions — but most fall short when it comes to real data, real numbers, and real-world relevance. The EV TCO Calculator is built to fill that gap:

• it supports data-driven decisions for drivers and businesses alike;

• it offers a transparent view of whether electrification makes sense — and under what conditions;

• it is simple to use, but grounded in reliable market data;

• and it adds value to digital platforms, helping mobility providers and fleet operators engage their users with useful insights.

One example is Bolt, who integrated the Calculator into their platform to help ride-hailing drivers evaluate whether switching to electric makes sense for them. But for anyone just starting to explore the switch to electric, this is a tool that can help you take that first step — without assumptions, and without complexity.

Turning data into action

Electrification is not just about technology — it is about timing, planning, and clear decisions. Whether you are exploring electric vehicles for the first time or comparing costs before your next purchase, the EV TCO Calculator gives you the clarity to move forward with confidence.

It is also a great way for fleet managers to explore Volteum’s calculation logic before engaging with a full-scale transition — something we support through our dedicated Electric Fleet Planner software.

At Volteum, we are here to support your journey — from early evaluation to full fleet transition. You can try the EV TCO Calculator now on our homepage — or book a personalised demo to see how Volteum can support your strategy with deeper insights, tailored recommendations, and real operational data.