Diesel prices in the UK have hit a new high, four years after the previous record was set in 2022.
The average price of a litre of diesel stood at 199.18p on Monday, September 28, according to figures compiled by the RAC, with motorists across the UK, including in Swindon, noticing huge price spikes.
This is 56.8p more expensive than at the start of the US-Iran war on February 28 this year, when a litre averaged 142.38p.
In June 2022, the previous record high was 199.09p.
The RAC data is based on the average price of diesel at a range of supermarkets, motorway service stations and independent retailers.
Cheapest places to get diesel in Swindon
To help you get the cheapest petrol and diesel, here are the lowest prices in Swindon, according to PetrolPrices.
Prices are updated regularly on the app.
- Tesco Swindon Extra - 195.9p
- Unbranded Swindon (Breeze Swindon Automat) - 195.9p
- Asda Swindon West - 196.7p
- Asda Swindon Haydon - 196.7p
- Esso Wootton Bassett Road (Coped Hall) - 196.9p
Cheapest places to get petrol (unleaded) in Swindon
- Esso Wootton Bassett Road (Coped Hall) - 169.9p
- Tesco Swindon Extra - 171.9p
- Asda Swindon West - 172.7p
- Asda Swindon Haydon - 172.7p
- Unbranded Swindon (Breeze Swindon Automat) - 172.9p
Why is diesel so expensive at the moment?
The cost of diesel has risen steadily in recent weeks due to the impact on global supplies from the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, and from renewed hostilities in the Middle East.
Russian exports of diesel have dropped sharply after many of the country’s oil refineries were targeted by Ukraine, with a key facility near Moscow damaged earlier this month as part of a huge drone operation.
Therefore, there is extra demand for fuel from other diesel-exporting countries, causing wholesale prices to rise.
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Meanwhile, the ongoing war between the US and Iran is continuing to disrupt the global trade in refined oil and other petroleum materials, with Iran’s effective blockade of the Strait of Hormuz limiting the production and supply of fuel needed by consumers.
RAC head of policy Simon Williams said: “The average price of a litre of diesel has now reached the highest level in UK history, in what will be a financial blow to households and businesses that use their vehicles regularly.
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“The cost of filling up an average family car is now almost £110, £31 more than it was at the start of the US-Iran conflict.
“This spells pain not only at the pumps for drivers, but for everyone who buys goods or services that rely on diesel lorries and vans; undoubtedly these increased costs will be passed on to consumers.
“Only a sustained lower oil price – over several weeks, not days – will lead to cheaper prices at the pumps.”
Have you noticed higher fuel prices in your area? Let us know in the comments below.
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