Are EVs cheaper to maintain than traditional petrol fuelled cars?

EV maintenance is lower over time due to simplicity of the driver train and fewer moving parts. 

While EVs may come with higher upfront costs due to their advanced technology and battery systems, they typically offer lower maintenance costs over time. This is primarily because they have far fewer moving parts compared to ICE vehicles.  To put it into perspective, a typical ICE vehicle has over 2,000 moving parts in its drivetrain, whereas an electric vehicle usually contains around 20 moving parts in its drivetrain, as cited by EV Connect [source].  
 
The absence of traditional ICE components in EVs eliminates the necessity for routine tasks such as oil changes, spark plug replacements, and servicing of drive belts and hoses. Plus, high-performance features in EVs, such as regenerative braking, significantly enhance durability. This reduces brake wear, leading to longer-lasting components.  Both of these examples not only simplifies maintenance schedules but also leads to substantial cost savings over the vehicle's lifetime. 
 
It's important to note that certain components still require maintenance, regardless of whether you drive an EV or an ICE vehicle. For instance, your shocks, suspension, and tires are subject to similar wear and tear. In fact, tires on EVs might wear out faster due to carrying heavier weight and being exposed to rapid torque. 
 
Moreover, it's worth considering that repair costs in the event of an accident may be higher for EVs. The supply chain for sourcing new parts for EVs can be more complex, and specialised technicians may be needed to carry out repairs due to the unique nature of EV systems.