Petrol and diesel prices surge to 18-month high in blow to millions of drivers

Diesel prices have risen even more sharply. The average price has climbed to 159.2p per litre, which is 12 per cent higher than just two weeks ago and the highest level seen since November 2023.

For many households, the jump is already being felt. The RAC estimated that filling a typical family car now costs around £4 more for petrol and £9 more for diesel than it did at the end of February.

Petrol was averaging 132.83p per litre on February 28, showing just how quickly prices have climbed in a short space of time. Motoring experts have now warned that global tensions are playing a major role in the sudden rise.

Simon Williams, head of policy at the RAC, warned that families who rely on their cars are being squeezed even further by rising costs.

He said: “Households, especially those that depend on the car, are under increasing financial pressure as a result of the conflict in the Gulf.”

Oil prices have surged in recent weeks, with crude oil climbing above $100 (£75) per barrel. That has pushed up wholesale fuel costs, which retailers then pass on to drivers at the pumps.

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However, the speed at which prices have risen at forecourts has raised concerns. Mr Williams said drivers should expect fair treatment when buying fuel.

He said: “Drivers deserve – and should expect – to be treated fairly when it comes to filling up, especially with pump prices still heading north.”

The RAC hoped talks planned between fuel companies and Government ministers could help address the issue. Meanwhile, a major survey of motorists suggested many people believe fuel retailers are increasing prices too quickly.

Campaign group FairFuelUK surveyed more than 23,000 drivers between March 5 and 12 about their experiences at petrol stations.

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When asked whether they had seen prices rise on fuel already in stock at their local forecourts, 43.4 per cent said they had noticed increases. Another 51.7 per cent said they were unsure. Among those who had seen prices jump, most blamed major oil company forecourts.

Nearly nine out of 10 respondents, 89.2 per cent, said brands such as Shell, BP, Esso and Texaco were charging the highest prices and raising costs for fuel bought at lower wholesale rates.

The survey also looked at how drivers would cope if prices rose by another 20p per litre or more. Many said they would have to cut back on everyday spending.

More than 72 per cent said they would reduce spending on leisure activities, eating out and entertainment, while 61.4 per cent said they would switch away from branded food products to save money.

Over half of motorists, 54.5 per cent, said they would use supermarket petrol stations more often in an effort to find cheaper fuel.

Nearly 47 per cent said they would buy less food overall, while 43.8 per cent said they would stay at home more rather than commute.

Public transport could also see more passengers, with 38.1 per cent saying they would use it more often if fuel prices continued to rise. Some of the responses highlighted deeper concerns about the impact on everyday life.

Around 22.7 per cent said they would visit friends and relatives less often, while 11.4 per cent warned they might have to cut back on hospital visits or medical appointments.

Drivers have also begun demanding action from the Government. The survey found 97.4 per cent of motorists want fuel duty cut by at least 10p per litre.

Howard Cox, founder of FairFuelUK, has criticised the Petrol Retailers Association after it pulled out of talks with Chancellor Rachel Reeves at Downing Street.

The organisation said it withdrew because comments from ministers had led to abuse being directed at petrol station staff. But Mr Cox was strongly critical of the decision.

He said: “Avoiding this meeting suggests the PRA has something to hide. Profiteering is widespread, and the fuel supply chain must be held accountable without question.”