Drivers who rely on diesel vehicles have received some disheartening news, as the RAC informs that diesel costs have surged for the fourth consecutive month. Motorists are now confronted with a 6p per litre hike since October 2024. Simon Williams from the RAC expressed his concerns: "It's not been a good start to 2025 for drivers at the pumps with prices going up for the fourth month in a row. Sadly, filling up is now nearly £3 more expensive than it was at the start of October.".
He added: "We hope this trend won't continue and that prices drop back down again. Much, of course, depends on global oil supply and demand." Although petrol prices have also risen over the past four months, diesel car owners are bearing the brunt with an average cost of 145.7p per litre by end-January 2025. To fill a standard family car's tank now costs approximately £80.15, posing a significant financial strain on those driving long distances regularly. Annually, these high-mileage drivers could face an outlay of £4,167 if fuel prices don't ease – marking a staggering increase of around £180 from just four months prior, reports the Express.
Petrol and diesel prices, closely tied to crude oil's market value, have seen a spike with barrels hitting $80 (£64) due to rising demand. Simon, however, is optimistic that pump prices will decrease soon, as oil costs are expected to dip below $70 (£56). He remarked: "While the price of oil can be notoriously volatile, there's reason to think forecourt fuel prices may get cheaper in the coming months as some analysts are predicting an average oil price nearer to $70 this year.".
Diesel vehicles, once favoured for their fuel efficiency, have seen a slump in demand, partly because of the emissions scandal. Data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) shows that January 2025 saw just 8,625 new diesel cars registered in the UK, a 7.7 per cent drop from previous figures, now making up only 6.2 per cent of the total new car market. Get email updates with the day's biggest stories.
