UK motorists are being strongly advised to fill their vehicle tanks before Sunday, as petrol and diesel costs continue their relentless climb, driven by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The RAC has issued a stark warning that diesel could reach 180p per litre by Monday, with petrol prices also set to rise above 150p a litre in the coming week.
Sharp Surge in Fuel Costs
The average price of unleaded petrol has now surged by more than 14p a litre since the end of February, reaching 147.19p. This marks the highest level for petrol since early June 2024. For a typical family car, this increase adds approximately £8 to the cost of a full tank, which now stands at around £81.
Simon Williams, head of policy at the RAC, emphasised the widespread impact: "Given how many rely on their cars, households are really feeling the effects of the conflict in the Middle East. The average price of unleaded has now risen more than 14p a litre to 147.19p since the end of February, adding £8 to the cost of filling up a family car which currently stands at £81. Petrol was last this high in early June 2024."
Diesel Drivers Face Even Higher Costs
The situation is particularly severe for diesel vehicle operators. Diesel prices have increased by 29p a litre to 171.17p, the highest in over three years since mid-January 2023. This escalation means filling a diesel tank now costs about £94, representing a £16 increase since the conflict began.
Mr Williams added: "For drivers of diesel vehicles, the situation is far worse, with a litre up 29p to 171.17p, its highest price for more than three years. This means a tank now costs £94, £16 more than it did at the start of the conflict."
No Relief in Sight Ahead of Easter
With a barrel of oil trading well over $100 for the past three days and expected to remain at that level, drivers are bracing for a challenging period at the pumps in the run-up to the Easter break. Price increases show no signs of abating.
"As a barrel of oil has been trading well over $100 for the last three days and looks set to remain at that level, drivers are in for a rough ride at the pumps in the run-up to the Easter break with no end to price increases in sight," Mr Williams stated.
He further warned: "With the price of petrol likely to go above 150p a litre in the next week and diesel heading to 180p, it's looking like it will be the most expensive Easter on the roads since the early days of the war in Ukraine in 2022."
Supply Chain Strains and Retail Response
This fuel price crisis coincides with reports of exceptional demand from motorists in recent weeks. Allan Leighton, executive chairman of major UK supermarket chain Asda, highlighted the strain on supply chains.
He said: "Our fuel volumes are up quite significantly and clearly demand has been outstripping supply. Supply is tight and we are all trying hard on that. The issue is a temporary one, and some could see issues when we are waiting for delivery, and we can expect to see that continue."
Leighton also addressed the volatility in the market: "The spikiness at the moment makes this tricky for us, as spikes can lead to temporary shortages. These are temporary and are addressed very quickly."
Motorists are urged to plan ahead and consider filling up before the anticipated price hikes take full effect, particularly with the Easter travel period approaching.
