An American YouTuber has analyzed the ownership costs of his Tesla Model 3 against his previous Hyundai Sonata, highlighting hidden expenses that offset some electric vehicle savings. While electricity costs provide benefits, higher insurance and registration fees narrow the gap. The comparison reveals key factors for potential EV buyers to consider.
Electric vehicles like the Tesla Model 3 are often promoted for their long-term savings on fuel and maintenance compared to traditional cars. However, a detailed breakdown by YouTuber Tailosive EV suggests that not all owners realize the full picture. In a recent video, he compared his experiences with the Model 3 to his old Hyundai Sonata, focusing on overlooked expenses.
Registration fees emerged as a significant difference. For the Tesla, Tailosive EV pays $570 annually, which is four times the $130 he paid for the Hyundai. Insurance costs also rose sharply; despite his clean driving record and high safety scores, his monthly premium jumped to $81 from $35 for the Sonata—a more than twofold increase. He attributes this to the higher vehicle value and repair expenses.
"Because this is a much more expensive vehicle, if the windshield cracks, that’s going to cost a lot more to replace. Or, if we get in a collision with the Tesla, we’re going to pay a lot more and wait a lot longer for service," Tailosive EV explained in the video.
Maintenance added to the costs as well, with higher spending on servicing and tire wear for the Model 3 than for the Hyundai. Despite these drawbacks, electricity usage still yielded a $600 annual saving over petrol. Over 20 years of ownership, this could amount to $12,000, helping justify the Model 3's $38,000 purchase price.
Tailosive EV's analysis, shared on January 7, 2026, underscores that while EVs offer environmental and efficiency advantages, buyers should account for these hidden costs to assess true affordability.
