(June 12, 2013) The Energy Department has released a new tool which allows motorists to compare the benefit of fueling electric vehicles to the cost of gasoline-powered engines. The eGallon calculator determines the price for gasoline in each state and compares it with the cost to power an electric car to travel the same distance achieved by a gallon of gasoline.

The national average for a gallon of gas is $3.65. In comparison, an eGallon would cost drivers a mere $1.14.On average it costs about three times less to fuel and electric car than it does a regular car.

“Consumers can see gasoline prices posted at the corner gas station, but are left in the dark on the cost of fueling an electric vehicle. The eGallon will bring greater transparency to vehicle operating costs, and help drivers figure out how much they might save on fuel by choosing an electric vehicle.  It also shows the low and steady price of fueling with electricity,” said Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz, in a statement on the department's website. 

“Not only can electric vehicles save consumers on fuel and reduce our dependence on oil, they also represent an opportunity for America to lead in a growing, global manufacturing industry.”

When visiting the calculator page, simply choose the state you live in and the cost for each gallon of gas and the amount of electricity to travel the same distance is determined. Prices in each state vary based on the price of electricity.