Fuelr

UK Fuel Price Index

National average petrol and diesel prices — updated every 12 hours

Petrol (E10)

157.9p

0p from last week

Diesel (B7)

190.4p

0p from last week

What Makes Up the Price of Fuel?

Fuel duty52.95p per litre
VAT (20%)~25–28p per litre
Crude oil cost~40–60p per litre
Retailer margin & distribution~5–10p per litre

Figures are approximate and vary with oil prices and exchange rates.

Why Are Petrol Prices Rising?

UK petrol prices are primarily driven by the global crude oil price, which is set in US dollars. When the dollar strengthens or OPEC reduces production, prices tend to rise at UK forecourts within a few weeks. Fuel duty (52.95p/litre) and VAT (20%) make up the majority of the pump price.

Why Are Petrol Prices Falling?

Prices fall when global oil supply increases, demand drops (e.g. economic slowdowns), or when the pound strengthens against the dollar. Competition between supermarket forecourts has also driven prices down in the UK — Tesco, Asda, and Morrisons are often 2–5p cheaper than branded sites.

When Is the Best Time to Fill Up?

Prices at UK forecourts tend to be cheapest on Mondays and Wednesdays. Supermarkets typically update their prices weekly. Filling up before a price rise — signalled by rising crude oil futures — can save a few pounds per tank.