This study compares ownership costs of electric and internal combustion vehicles for city car consumers in Jakarta, Indonesia. It examines initial costs, fuel, maintenance, insurance, taxes, battery replacement, and resale prices to highlight cost differences. Electric cars have higher initial costs but lower operating expenses due to cheaper electricity and maintenance. Tax incentives significantly impact total ownership costs. The research offers insights for consumer decisions and informs policy on environmentally friendly transportation. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2025.