Petrol Drivers in England Confront 18p Per Mile Fuel Costs as Crisis Deepens
Petrol drivers operating unleaded cars in England are now grappling with fuel costs that can reach as high as 18p per mile, as the ongoing UK fuel crisis intensifies against the backdrop of Middle East tensions. This significant financial burden comes as motor fuel prices experience another upward surge in March 2026.
Current Fuel Price Statistics and Average Costs
According to recent data, the average cost of motor fuel for the week ending 9 March 2026 stood at £1.357 per litre for ultra low sulphur unleaded petrol. For ultra low sulphur diesel, the price was even higher at £1.49 per litre. These figures highlight the escalating expenses that drivers must now contend with on a daily basis.
Financial research firm Nimblefins has provided detailed analysis, stating: "The overall cost to drive a car is approximately 49p per mile. We calculate this by dividing the average annual car running costs of £3,484 by the average car mileage of 7,100 miles per year."
The firm further explained that these costs can fluctuate significantly based on various factors, including the vehicle's value, insurance rates, and fuel efficiency. Specifically, NimbleFins noted: "On a per mile basis, fuel costs range from 13p to 18p per mile for petrol cars, while diesel vehicles incur approximately 14p to 17p per mile in fuel expenses."
Industry Perspectives on the Fuel Situation
Despite the concerning price increases, industry leaders are urging calm among consumers. Simon Smith, CEO of Voltempo, emphasized that there is no need for panic buying. He clarified: "What we're witnessing is localised, with individual stations managing their stock levels. This is not indicative of a broader shortage across the network."
Smith advised motorists to "fill up normally when you need to, and allow the network to function properly." He warned that panic behavior could exacerbate the situation, stating: "The more panic that occurs, the higher prices will climb. This will ultimately drive up haulage costs and subsequently increase the prices of essential goods that everyone requires."
Supply Chain Challenges and Broader Implications
Asda executive chairman Allan Leighton confirmed that fuel supply is currently "tight" across certain areas. While acknowledging that some pumps had temporarily run dry while awaiting deliveries, Leighton stressed that these issues were not nationwide and were being addressed "very quickly" by the supermarket chain.
Leighton also revealed that Asda had experienced a substantial surge in demand from motorists eager to fill their tanks before prices escalate further. This increased demand has placed additional pressure on the already strained supply system.
The situation extends beyond just transportation costs, as Benjamin Godwin, partner at investment advisory firm PRISM Strategic Intelligence, explained to the BBC. Godwin noted that certain crude oil components are utilized in fertilizer production, meaning there could be significant cost implications for food prices as well. This connection highlights how the fuel crisis may ripple through multiple sectors of the economy, affecting consumers in various aspects of their daily lives.
As petrol drivers in England navigate these challenging circumstances, the combination of rising fuel prices, supply constraints, and potential broader economic impacts creates a complex landscape for both individual motorists and the wider transportation industry. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether these cost pressures stabilize or continue to escalate across the United Kingdom.
