Near real-time fuel prices are now included on Google Maps across the UK for the first time, a change introduced by Andy Burnham's Labour government that could save families £40 a year at the pump. The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) confirmed the update takes effect from today (Thursday 8 October).
Motorists can find the cheapest fuel near them by opening the app and searching for a nearby forecourt. The scheme arrives as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East has been pushing up fuel prices, with standard diesel climbing to an average cost of 199.18p per litre at the end of September, while the price of diesel rose by 20 per cent.
Fuel Finder data now on Google Maps
The Google Maps update follows the Fuel Finder scheme, rolled out earlier this year to help drivers get more competitive fuel prices following a recommendation by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). Since February, it has been compulsory for petrol stations across the UK to report the price of their fuel within 30 minutes of it changing or risk a fine, and the CMA can take action where there is evidence that petrol stations are not complying with the law.
The overwhelming majority of petrol stations are inputting data to Fuel Finder promptly, with around 99% of all fuel sold on UK roads now reflected. The data is already used by thousands of drivers across apps such as Waze, Petrol Prices, the AA, Confused.com and RAC Fuel Watch. Its integration with Google Maps will help millions more motorists find the best price at the pump.
Officials welcome the change
Minister for Energy Consumers Polly Billington said: "Tackling the affordability crisis is our first responsibility and for so many families and businesses, petrol and diesel are essential goods, not luxuries. Accessing the cheapest fuel should be simple, which is why it is a game-changer for near real-time fuel prices to be shown on Google Maps for the first time in the UK, helping drivers find the best deal and save money at the pump."
Sarah-Jayne Williams, Director of Global Product Partnerships for Geo at Google, said: "Navigating fuel rising costs shouldn’t add stress to everyday journeys. Integrating Fuel Finder data into Google Maps and Waze gives drivers visibility on nearby pump prices, helping drivers make intentional choices to help their budgets go further this winter. Go on and give it a try today!"
