Experts have highlighted that drivers could save hundreds of pounds every year by avoiding going to the petrol station and switching to an electric vehicle.
New research has warned that motorists face hidden costs when visiting petrol stations, with experts highlighting the extra expenses.
When visiting a petrol station, drivers often buy food and drinks inside the convenience shop when paying for their fuel.
New insight suggests that drivers spend an average of £5 every time they visit a petrol station, quickly racking up to £260 a year.
The warning comes as fuel prices continue to rise, despite intervention from the Government to try and limit the cost hikes.
Drivers heading to the filling station will pay just over 137p per litre on average, while diesel vehicle owners will fork out 146.23p.
Fuel prices are currently at the highest cost in 18 months as motorists continue to be hit with expensive costs.
Data from RAC Fuel Watch shows that drivers are being forced to pay even more when they visit motorway service stations, although no significant price changes are expected soon.
Drivers could spend around £260 a year if they fill up regularly
|
GETTY/PA
A litre of unleaded fuel will cost almost £1.60, while diesel nears 170p, with experts consistently calling on drivers to fill up before they head on a long journey.
Mandy Simpson, co-founder of Simpson & Partners, highlighted that a typical petrol station meal deal has around 801 calories.
She said: “There’s so much talk in the media about weight loss drugs, how sugar isn’t healthy and how diabetes is on the rise.
“The hidden side benefit for EV drivers who home charge is that you don’t need to go to the petrol station and expose yourself to the temptations on the snack aisle.”
The expert emphasised the benefits of investing in an electric car, especially if they can charge their vehicle at home.
The RAC estimates that it costs just 8p per mile when charging an electric at home, whereas filling a petrol or diesel car would cost 15p and 16p respectively.
Data suggests that fully charging an electric car with a 64kWh battery from empty to full at home costs a maximum of £17.52.
This can be even cheaper for motorists who make use of EV-friendly tariffs for lower rates, especially if they are charged during off-peak hours.
Motorists can save money by charging their EVs at home
|
PAAlternatively, motorists can make use of more than 87,000 public chargers located across the country, including charging hubs near motorways, or lamppost chargers along streets.
Ms Simpson added: “Once you experience the convenience of home charging, it’s hard to imagine going back.
“You can top up your car while you sleep, it’s energy-efficient, time-saving and much less disruptive to your day, and turns out it’s kinder to your waistband too.”