Knowing your fuel cost per kilometre helps you budget road trips, compare vehicles, and track monthly car expenses. Whether you drive petrol, diesel, CNG, or electric, this guide gives you the exact formula, worked examples, and a complete reference table.
How to Calculate Fuel Cost Per KM
Step 1: Know Your Fuel Efficiency (km/L)
Fuel Efficiency (km/L) = Distance Driven (km) / Fuel Used (litres) Example: 400 km / 35 litres = 11.4 km/L
Step 2: Calculate Cost Per KM
Cost per KM = Fuel Price per Litre / Fuel Efficiency (km/L) Example: Rs.100/litre / 15 km/L = Rs.6.67 per km
Step 3: Calculate Total Trip Cost
Total Trip Cost = Distance (km) x Cost per KM Example: 500 km x Rs.6.67 = Rs.3,335
Fuel Cost Per KM Reference Table
Fuel price assumed: Rs.100/litre. Adjust proportionally for your local fuel price.
| Fuel Efficiency | Cost/KM | 100 KM Cost | 500 KM Cost | Monthly (1500 km) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 km/L (heavy SUV) | Rs.12.50 | Rs.1,250 | Rs.6,250 | Rs.18,750 |
| 10 km/L (avg car) | Rs.10.00 | Rs.1,000 | Rs.5,000 | Rs.15,000 |
| 12 km/L (hatchback) | Rs.8.33 | Rs.833 | Rs.4,167 | Rs.12,500 |
| 15 km/L (fuel efficient) | Rs.6.67 | Rs.667 | Rs.3,333 | Rs.10,000 |
| 18 km/L (hybrid/small) | Rs.5.56 | Rs.556 | Rs.2,778 | Rs.8,333 |
| 20 km/L (motorcycle) | Rs.5.00 | Rs.500 | Rs.2,500 | Rs.7,500 |
| 25 km/L (efficient bike) | Rs.4.00 | Rs.400 | Rs.2,000 | Rs.6,000 |
| 40 km/L (scooter) | Rs.2.50 | Rs.250 | Rs.1,250 | Rs.3,750 |
Cost Per KM by Fuel Type
| Fuel Type | Typical Mileage | Fuel Price | Cost/KM (approx) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol | 12–18 km/L | Rs.100–106/L | Rs.5.6–8.8/km |
| Diesel | 16–24 km/L | Rs.88–95/L | Rs.3.7–5.9/km |
| CNG | 18–25 km/kg | Rs.80–95/kg | Rs.3.2–5.3/km |
| Electric (EV) | 5–8 km/kWh | Rs.6–10/kWh | Rs.0.75–2.0/km |
Road Trip Example — Delhi to Jaipur
Distance: 280 km | Car: 15 km/L | Petrol: Rs.103/L Fuel needed = 280 / 15 = 18.67 litres Total fuel cost = 18.67 x Rs.103 = Rs.1,923 Cost per KM = Rs.103 / 15 = Rs.6.87/km
Tips to Lower Fuel Cost Per KM
- Maintain tyre pressure — under-inflated tyres increase fuel use by 3–5%
- Service engine regularly — dirty air filters reduce efficiency by up to 10%
- Drive at steady speeds — 70–90 km/h is most efficient on highways
- Avoid aggressive acceleration — smooth driving saves up to 15% fuel
- Turn off AC on short trips — AC increases fuel use by 5–20%
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate fuel cost per km?
Divide fuel price per litre by the vehicle fuel efficiency in km/L. Example: Rs.100/litre / 15 km/L = Rs.6.67/km.
What is a good fuel cost per km in India?
Under Rs.6/km is good for a petrol car. Diesel cars typically achieve Rs.4–5/km, CNG around Rs.3–4/km, and EVs as low as Rs.1–2/km.
How do I calculate road trip fuel cost?
Total Cost = (Distance / Fuel Efficiency) x Fuel Price. Example: 500 km / 15 km/L = 33.3 litres x Rs.100 = Rs.3,333.
Conclusion
Calculating fuel cost per km is simple: divide fuel price by your vehicle efficiency. Use the tables above for instant trip planning and monthly budgeting. EVs and CNG vehicles are cheapest per km. Try our free fuel cost and distance calculators for instant results.