Motorists across the UK are being encouraged to stay calm and compare fuel prices locally as oil costs experience a significant spike, reaching levels not witnessed since the summer of 2022. Brent crude oil surged to nearly $120 a barrel at one point on Monday, directly impacting petrol and diesel prices at the pumps due to oil being a primary component in fuel production.
Current Fuel Price Averages
According to the RAC, the nationwide average for diesel surpassed the 150p per litre barrier over the weekend, hitting 150.97p on Sunday. Meanwhile, unleaded petrol averaged 137.51p per litre on the same day. Edmund King, president of the AA, has clarified that substantial increases in fuel prices will not occur immediately. This delay is because fuel purchased earlier at lower prices takes time to reflect the rising oil costs in retail pricing.
Expert Advice for Drivers
Mr King recommended that drivers maintain their regular refuelling routines but consider reducing non-essential journeys and adjusting their driving styles to conserve fuel. He noted, "These measures linked to warmer weather means drivers can ensure their fuel stretches further." Additionally, he urged motorists to utilise available tools to find the most economical fuel options in their areas.
How to Locate the Best Fuel Deals
Several resources are available to help consumers identify the cheapest petrol and diesel nearby. Petrol Prices offers a free online checker where users can input their postcode to view the latest local fuel prices. The RAC provides current national averages, including breakdowns for supermarkets and motorway stations.
The UK Government has recently introduced a new "fuel finder" scheme, mandating all filling stations to report price changes for petrol or diesel within 30 minutes. This open-source data enables third-party apps, websites, and car satellite navigation systems to display live, comparable prices. The Competition and Markets Authority has warned it will take action against retailers failing to comply with this reporting requirement.
Additional Money-Saving Tips
To further reduce fuel expenses, drivers should avoid costly motorway service stations and plan journeys around cheaper refuelling stops. Regular vehicle maintenance, such as servicing, is also crucial to ensure optimal fuel efficiency. By combining these strategies with price comparison tools, motorists can mitigate the impact of rising oil prices on their budgets.
