I doubt that. Such claims are often based on bogus numbers.
You’re correct; that claim of 5 cent per mile operating cost is deceptive. Presuming the 5 cent figure is correct, that can only be for direct operating cost. There is no way it includes the MASSIVELY higher capital expenditure required to buy the car in the first place.
Let’s instead compare total ownership cost of a Tesla vs. a conventional vehicle and the numbers will be significantly against the Tesla.
“There is no way it includes the MASSIVELY higher capital expenditure required to buy the car in the first place.”
That was just one of the items I was thinking, but you’re right. They also often compare electricity costs below market, like 5 cents a kilowatt, and they also compare it to gas costs at $5 a gallon.