The cost of owning and running a car in Tanzania is one of the biggest concerns for drivers. With rising fuel prices, more Tanzanians are beginning to explore the benefits of electric vehicles (EVs). Recent studies and real-world comparisons show that driving on electricity is up to 86% cheaper than using petrol or diesel. But what does this mean for everyday drivers, and how can you take advantage of these savings?
This article breaks down the cost differences between fuel and electricity, explains why EVs are more economical in Tanzania, and offers practical advice for drivers considering the switch.
Why Fuel Costs Are Rising in Tanzania
Fuel prices in Tanzania are influenced by global oil markets, shipping costs, and government levies. Over the past few years, the average price of petrol in major cities like Dar es Salaam and Arusha has ranged between TSh 3,000 and TSh 3,500 per litre.
For a typical car consuming around 7–10 litres per 100 km, the daily commute quickly becomes costly. Add in traffic jams, long-distance trips, and fluctuating global oil prices, and fuel remains one of the biggest expenses for Tanzanian drivers.
Why Electricity Is Cheaper
Unlike fuel, electricity prices in Tanzania are more stable and locally regulated. TANESCO provides electricity at an average of TSh 295 per kWh, which translates to much lower running costs for EV owners.
Here’s a simple comparison:
| Type | Average Consumption | Cost per 100 km |
| Petrol Car (7L/100km at TSh 3,200/L) | 7 Litres | ~TSh 22,400 |
| Electric Car (15kWh/100km at TSh 295/kWh) | 15 kWh | ~TSh 4,425 |
Result: Driving an EV saves you around TSh 17,975 per 100 km—that’s roughly 86% cheaper compared to petrol.
Savings Over Time
To put things into perspective:
- Average Driver (15,000 km/year)
- Petrol Car: ~TSh 3.36 million per year
- Electric Car: ~TSh 660,000 per year
- Annual Savings: ~TSh 2.7 million
- Petrol Car: ~TSh 3.36 million per year
These savings add up significantly, especially for families, businesses, or taxi drivers who cover long distances daily.
Other Cost Advantages of EVs
Aside from fuel savings, EVs reduce costs in other ways:
- Lower Maintenance Costs – EVs have fewer moving parts, meaning less wear and fewer repairs.
- No Oil Changes – Unlike petrol engines, EVs don’t require regular oil servicing.
- Regenerative Braking – Extends brake life and reduces replacement costs.
When combined with cheaper electricity, EVs offer a much lower total cost of ownership than petrol or diesel vehicles.
Practical Tips for Maximizing EV Savings
- Charge at Home: Installing a home charger ensures you benefit from lower TANESCO rates instead of depending on public chargers.
- Use Off-Peak Hours: Electricity is cheaper at night—schedule charging during these times for maximum savings.
- Maintain Tire Pressure: Properly inflated tires improve efficiency for both EVs and fuel cars.
- Plan Trips Efficiently: Reduces unnecessary mileage and optimizes battery use.
Challenges of EV Ownership in Tanzania
While EVs are cheaper to run, challenges still exist:
- Limited Charging Infrastructure: Urban areas like Dar es Salaam are beginning to see charging stations, but rural areas remain underserved.
- Upfront Costs: EVs generally cost more to purchase compared to second-hand fuel cars.
- Battery Replacement Concerns: Long-term battery costs can be high, though modern EV batteries last 8–10 years.
Buying the Right Car for Tanzania
Not every driver may be ready to go fully electric. Some may prefer hybrids, which combine petrol engines with electric motors for better efficiency.
For those interested in exploring EVs or hybrids, you can browse available listings on Auto24 Tanzania. Popular models like the Nissan Leaf, Toyota Prius Hybrid, and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV are already visible on the Tanzanian second-hand market.
For more automotive updates, comparisons, and expert advice tailored for Tanzanian roads, visit Automag Tanzania.
Who Benefits Most from EV Savings?
- Daily Commuters: Drivers in Dar es Salaam traffic can cut monthly fuel bills drastically.
- Taxi & Ride-Hailing Drivers: Lower running costs mean higher profits.
- Families: Reduce household expenses by switching to a cost-efficient EV.
- Businesses: Delivery fleets benefit from predictable, low operating costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it really 86% cheaper to drive an EV in Tanzania?
Yes. On average, electricity costs about TSh 4,425 per 100 km, compared to around TSh 22,400 for petrol. That makes EVs roughly 86% cheaper to run per kilometre.
2. How long does it take to charge an EV in Tanzania?
With a standard home charger (3.7 kW), it can take 6–8 hours. Faster chargers (7.4 kW or more) reduce this to 3–4 hours. Public fast-charging stations, where available, can charge much quicker.
3. Are EVs practical for rural Tanzania?
Currently, rural areas have limited charging options. EVs are more practical for urban residents who can install home chargers. For rural drivers, hybrids may be a better option until infrastructure improves.
4. How much do second-hand EVs cost in Tanzania?
Prices vary depending on model and condition. For example, used Nissan Leafs or Toyota Prius Hybrids can be found on Auto24 Tanzania at competitive prices compared to new imports.
5. Do EV batteries need frequent replacement?
No. Most modern EV batteries last 8–10 years or over 150,000 km before showing significant degradation. Proper charging habits can extend battery life further.
6. Can I save money if I drive short distances daily?
Absolutely. Short daily commutes are where EVs shine since you rely almost entirely on electricity, cutting fuel costs to nearly zero.
Conclusion
Fuel prices in Tanzania are unpredictable, but electricity remains stable, affordable, and up to 86% cheaper for drivers. While EVs require an initial investment and infrastructure development is ongoing, the long-term benefits—both financial and environmental—make them an excellent choice for the future of Tanzanian mobility.
By choosing wisely between petrol, hybrid, and electric vehicles, drivers can save money while contributing to a greener Tanzania.
