FleetCheck has warned that rising fuel prices are prompting increasing concern among fleet operators about the possibility of fuel rationing in the UK. The warning comes as Chancellor John Healey pledges to monitor petrol pump prices closely to prevent profiteering.
Fleet fears over fuel price escalation
Peter Golding, CEO of FleetCheck, a fleet software company, said petrol prices are now at a high for 2026, with diesel not far behind. He noted that the possibility of a lasting ceasefire in global conflicts seems unlikely, leading fleets to worry about fuel price escalation extending into Q3, Q4, and even 2027.
“They’re anxious that, at a time when general fleet costs are under pressure, fuel prices may start to spiral,” Golding said. “The fear is that, while oil producers are looking for alternative routes to alleviate supply issues, the current situation could persist for not just months but years.”
Impact on fleet operations
Golding highlighted that fleets not already implementing basic fuel management practices have some room for improvement, but those that have exhausted such measures face difficult choices. “You have little alternative but to pay higher pump prices and either see your margins eroded or pass on higher costs to customers. It’s a genuine concern,” he added.
Some fleets have already introduced tighter controls on fuel purchasing and more accurate monitoring of fuel use to mitigate the impact.
Government response to price gouging fears
Fuel retailers have historically faced accusations of “rocket and feather” pricing, where prices rise rapidly but fall slowly. In response, Chancellor John Healey has stated he will be “watching closely” to protect consumers from being overcharged.
“We’ll be watching closely for any suggestions that customers are being taken for a ride at the pump or the till,” Healey said last weekend. Writing in The Telegraph, he added: “Companies’ willingness to work with the Government throughout this crisis has been positive, and there has been no significant evidence of so-called price gouging, but I want to be blunt in reassuring the public that our regulators have the powers to clamp down on it if it happens.”
EVs as a cost-effective alternative
Golding pointed out that electric vehicles (EVs) present a compelling case for fleets, especially when home charging is available. “Based on current prices, EV fuel costs per mile if you are able to home charge are around a quarter of petrol and diesel,” he said.
He also noted that lease rates and purchase prices for EVs are becoming more competitive, “strengthening the argument for electrification.”
As fuel price concerns persist, fleets are urged to review their fuel management strategies and consider long-term solutions like EV adoption to mitigate financial pressure.
