Driver Switches from RAM 3500 to Silverado EV and Reveals Amazing Fuel Savings
April 10, 2026
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Key Takeaways
Switching from a diesel truck to an electric vehicle (EV) in Canada can lead to significant savings, with operating costs over 60% cheaper per kilometre.
The 2026 Chevrolet Silverado EV, with its 170 kWh battery, achieves approximately 3.2 kilometres per kWh, costing around $0.09 per kilometre to operate, compared to $0.24 per kilometre for a diesel truck.
Canadian drivers can benefit from substantial government incentives, such as up to $4,000 through the iZEV program, and provincial rebates ranging from $3,500 to $13,000, making EV ownership more affordable.
Significant Savings: Switching from a Diesel Truck to an EV in Canada
For Canadian drivers, especially those in rural areas, making the switch from an internal combustion engine (ICE) truck to an electric vehicle (EV) can lead to substantial savings. Consider the experience of one driver who exchanged his trusty 2023 RAM 3500 diesel for a new 2026 Chevrolet Silverado EV. The real-world fuel savings are remarkable and worth noting.
The Cost of Diesel vs. Electric in Canada
In many parts of Canada, diesel prices are soaring. With diesel averaging around **$1.70 per litre**, it’s more expensive than ever to operate a large diesel truck. For instance, Robert Wallace, a certified energy manager, found that his 2023 RAM 3500, which gets approximately **7 kilometres per litre**, costs him **$0.24 per kilometre** to drive.
The Chevrolet Silverado EV Experience
When Wallace tested the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado EV, he was astounded by the savings. The Silverado EV, equipped with a **170 kWh battery**, achieves about **3.2 kilometres per kWh**. Assuming he charges at home—where the average electricity rate in Canada is around **$0.30 per kWh**—driving the electric truck costs him approximately **$0.09 per kilometre**.
The Math Behind the Savings
To put it into perspective, driving the RAM 3500 costs Wallace **$0.24 per kilometre**, whereas the Silverado EV costs **$0.09 per kilometre**. This means that operating the electric truck is **over 60% cheaper** per kilometre than the diesel truck.
If Wallace drives **48,000 kilometres** a year, switching to the Silverado EV would save him more than **$6,720 annually** in fuel costs alone.
Additional Savings with Canadian Incentives
In Canada, there are numerous incentives to make going electric even more attractive. The **iZEV ( Incentives for Zero-Emission Vehicles) program** offers up to **$4,000** for new eligible EVs, and provincial rebates can add thousands of dollars to your savings. For example:
- **Ontario**: Up to **$13,000** for new EVs through the Drive Clean program.
- **British Columbia**: Up to **$3,500** through the EV Incentive Program.
- **Quebec**: Up to **$4,000** through the RÉVE program.
Lower Maintenance Costs
Beyond fuel savings, EVs generally require **less maintenance** than their ICE counterparts. Electric trucks are estimated to need **40% less maintenance**, which can translate to hundreds of dollars in savings each year. For example, you won’t need oil changes, and many moving parts are eliminated, reducing wear and tear.
Real-World Efficiency
Wallace’s experience isn’t an isolated case. Many Canadian EV owners report similar efficiencies. For example, a Tesla Model 3, which achieves about **25 kilometres per kWh**, costs around **$0.012 per kilometre** at $0.30/kWh, making it even more economical.
Why Make the Switch?
With diesel prices fluctuating and the future of global oil markets uncertain, now is an excellent time for Canadian truck drivers to consider EVs. The combination of lower fuel costs, government incentives, and reduced maintenance makes the switch not only economically sensible but also environmentally responsible.
Consider Solar Charging
For those looking to further reduce costs, integrating solar power is a viable option. Services like **EnergySage** can help you find trusted solar installers in Canada, offering competitive pricing and helping you save 20-30% compared to going it alone.
Making the switch to an EV is a decision that pays off in the long run—both financially and for the environment.
