Diesel Tank Fill Cost Surpasses £100 Mark for First Time Since 2022
The average price of diesel in the UK has reached 182.8p per litre, marking some of the highest fuel costs since 2022. This significant increase has pushed the expense of filling a standard diesel tank beyond £100 for the first time in four years, reflecting a sharp 40p per litre rise since the onset of the Iran war.
Petrol Prices Also Remain Elevated
Petrol is similarly high, currently standing at 152.83p per litre. This means a full petrol tank now costs approximately £84, adding financial pressure to drivers across the nation. According to RAC head of policy Simon Williams, unleaded petrol has increased by 20p a litre since the conflict began, while diesel has risen by 40p, making a full tank £11 and £22 more expensive respectively.
Williams noted: "RAC analysis of wholesale fuel data points towards the price of petrol potentially stabilising if the cost of oil doesn’t increase further, although diesel still looks likely to rise."
Easter Travel Expected to Be Exceptionally Busy
Despite these soaring fuel prices, drivers are being urged to prepare for a hectic Easter weekend. It is predicted to have the highest number of road users for the weekend in four years, with nearly 21 million leisure journeys planned over the period. Traffic is expected to build from Thursday as schools break up, with major routes like the M5 towards Devon and Cornwall and the M25 set to be particularly congested.
RAC mobile servicing and repairs team leader Sean Kimberlin advised: "Fuel prices may have risen sharply in recent weeks, but our research with drivers shows they are still determined to make the most of the Easter break. Despite diesel costing around £19 more per tank than last year and petrol about £8 more, only a small number of people are actually changing their plans."
Tips for Navigating the Easter Getaway
To help motorists cope, Kimberlin recommended: "For many, Easter is the first real chance to get away since Christmas, so we’re urging drivers to use the myRAC app to find the cheapest forecourts near them. The worst delays are expected from around 10am, so getting on the road early is still the best way to avoid the queues."
This year's Easter getaway is anticipated to be one of the busiest since 2022, with planned leisure trips rising for the second consecutive year. Drivers are encouraged to fill up before 10am on Thursday to avoid peak congestion and higher costs, ensuring a smoother travel experience during this busy period.
