Here are some numbers to consider from my owner experience with EV ownership.
Purchased 2013 Nissan Leaf SV on 5/1/2015 - $13,700 for certified pre-owned model.
66mi daily commute at speeds up to 65mph - averaging 4.8mi/kWh (using eco-mode, moderate coasting, and braking regen as much as possible)
According to the CarWings telematics, to date I've driven a total of 6,456.2mi and consumed 1,328.1 kWh of electricity. Some of this was free public charging, but lets assume all of it was at home where I pay $0.145/kWh for electricity. Assuming 80% charging efficiency, and the cost of operation works out to $0.0373/mile -- pretty friggin frugal. Factoring in the free public charging I'm able to take advantage of occasionally and I'm likely closer to $0.03 even.
Required maintenance for this vehicle includes the following:
- Rotate tires every 7,500mi (DIY)
- Change cabin filter annually (DIY)
- Change brake fluid bi-annually (DIY)
That's literally it.
I sold a vehicle that was getting 24.5mpg, and requiring an average of $150/mo in upkeep over the last 12mo. Based on my experience with the Leaf so far, I expect to save $150/mo on fuel (even at today's gas prices), and $150/mo on upkeep no longer required. The loan payment on the Leaf (0% interest) is $270 -- so compared to me hanging onto my previous vehicle...it is actually cheaper to purchase/operate a used Leaf.
Also - I saw comments about charging efficiency. Using a "kill a watt" meter - my charging efficiency on 120V at home is 75%-80%. It consumes just under 16kW from the wall and puts about 12kW into the battery in the 12hr it as to recharge each night. As others have indicated, level 2 charging (220/240) is more efficient.
Overall, I'd highly recommend purchasing a used EV, especially if you'd be replacing a vehicle that isn't all that efficient. The longer your commute the more you'll save.