Amid the escalating energy crisis linked to the ongoing conflict in Iran, motorists across Europe are being urged to “drive less” and prioritize public transport and car-sharing. Dan Jørgensen, European Commission chief and energy expert, highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating that Europe faces a “very serious situation” requiring immediate action to conserve fuel resources.
“Even if peace returns tomorrow, normal conditions won’t resume anytime soon,” Jørgensen warned. “Saving oil—especially diesel and jet fuel—is critical for stabilizing the situation.”
Fuel prices have surged dramatically in March. The average cost of unleaded petrol rose by 20p per litre, reaching 152.83p, while diesel saw an even sharper increase of 40p per litre, hitting 182.77p. This spike marks one of the fastest monthly fuel price rises on record according to the RAC.
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Simon Williams, head of policy at RAC, described March as “truly unprecedented,” noting that although the real-term increase doesn’t match the 1973 oil crisis, this month’s rise surpasses even the early months of the Ukraine war. Diesel prices, in particular, have experienced an 18p per litre surge above previous monthly records.
With eight out of ten people reliant on their vehicles, these soaring costs are impacting households and businesses alike. As the Easter holiday approaches—with an expected 21 million leisure journeys anticipated across the UK—the RAC urges drivers to fill up carefully and use the myRAC app to locate the cheapest fuel stations.
To mitigate the crisis, Jørgensen advocates for working from home where possible, lowering highway speed limits by 10 km/h, encouraging public transport use, alternating private car access, and adopting efficient driving habits.
Edmund King, AA President, also emphasized the importance of adjusting driving behavior: “Taking your foot off the accelerator and maintaining a steady speed can save money and enhance safety.” He advised drivers to use apps like the AA App to navigate fluctuating fuel prices and avoid the “postcode lottery.”
As fuel prices remain volatile, these collective actions aim to ease the strain on consumers and support broader energy conservation efforts during this critical period.