Gas vs Electric Cars for Vancouver Rentals: What Works Better in Winter & Long-Term Use

The debate between gas and electric cars is everywhere, but most comparisons miss what really matters: daily convenience and long-term costs. Whether an electric car makes sense depends on your home, driving habits, and budget. Some save thousands with EVs; others find gas cars still work best. Let’s look at the four key points:

1. Convenience: Fill-Up Time and Driving Distance

5 Minutes Refueling vs. 20 Minutes Charging

Gas cars are quick. You fill up in about 5 minutes and can drive 640+ km. Stations are everywhere: highways, cities, and rural areas.

EVs are different. Most owners charge at home overnight if you have a garage or driveway. Road trips require planning stops. Quick chargers give 160–320 km in 20–30 minutes, while slower chargers take hours

Range

Gas cars can go 480–800 km per tank, so range isn’t usually a worry.EVs go 400–640 km per charge. Cold weather or highway driving can reduce this by 20–40%. “Range anxiety” usually fades as drivers get used to charging routines.

2. Money: Purchase & 10-Year Costs

Huge Price Gap

A Mercedes GLB 250 costs around $55000. While a Tesla Model X is about $115000. Federal and provincial rebates can cut $7,500–$12,500 from the EV price.

Budget buyers still have more gas options. You can find good used Benz GLB 250 under $50,000, while used Model X typically remain over $100,000.

Fuel Savings with

Driving 160 km costs ~$14 in the GLB 250 vs. $5 in the Model X. Over 16,000 km/year, that’s $1,400 vs. $500.

Gas prices fluctuate, while electricity is more stable. Public fast chargers cost more than home charging—around $10–$15 per 160 km—but still usually cheaper than gas.

Maintenance

Gas cars need oil changes, filters, spark plugs, and transmission upkeep (~$1200/year). EVs skip most of this (~$400/year). Batteries cost $5000–$15000 but are usually under 8–10 year or 160,000+ km warranty.

Depreciation

Gas cars lose approximately 50% in five years. EV depreciation varies: Model X holds value well if popular, but rapid tech improvements (longer range, autopilot and faster charging) can make older EVs feel outdated.

3. Performance: Speed and Handling

Acceleration

Electric cars deliver instant torque, accelerating faster than many gas SUVs, with smooth, quiet power. The GLB 250 builds power gradually, offering engine feedback through sound and vibration

Handling

EVs have a low center of gravity due to heavy batteries, improving cornering and reducing body roll. Gas SUVs like the GLB 250 sit higher, so handling can feel less planted.

4. Emissions: Local Air Quality and Global Impact

Tailpipe Emissions

Gas cars release nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and particulates, affecting city air. EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions.

CO₂ and Energy Source

EV emissions depend on the electricity grid. Renewable powered regions produce  low CO₂, while coal or gas grids still generally emit less than gas cars because power plants are more efficient.

Battery Production

EV batteries require lithium, cobalt, and other materials. Mining has environmental impacts, but recycling and cleaner manufacturing are improving.

Electric cars like the Tesla Model X offer lower fuel and maintenance costs, instant torque, and zero tailpipe emissions. But they come with higher upfront prices, charging limits, and range considerations especially if you lack home charging or take frequent long trips.

For many people, a gas car like the Mercedes GLB 250 remains more practical. It’s easier to refuel, widely available, and predictable for daily life and road trips. If convenience, flexibility, and lower upfront cost matter most, a gas SUV is still a strong, reliable choice.

Image reference Mercedes Benz GLB