Motorists driving around 8,000 miles annually are increasingly feeling the pinch at the pump, with fuel costs estimated at 20p per mile for an average unleaded car. According to data analyzed by NimbleFins, this translates to roughly £133 per month in petrol expenses, based on an average of 666 miles driven monthly.
The Department of Transport notes that UK drivers typically clock between 5,000 and 8,000 miles yearly, though this varies depending on vehicle age, usage, and upkeep. For petrol cars, annual mileage under 10,000 is generally considered low, while diesel cars, benefiting from better fuel efficiency on longer trips, often have a slightly lower threshold to be deemed low mileage. Mileage above these ranges would be categorized as high.
Fuel prices remain volatile. The average price of unleaded petrol recently hit 159.43p per litre—an increase of 26.6p since late February. Diesel prices, although slightly down from their April peak of 191.54p, still stand at 184.96p per litre. This marks the first time diesel has fallen below 185p per litre since early April.
READ MORE: Birmingham Student’s GoFundMe Surpasses £20,000 Following Tragic Road Death
READ MORE: Northern Belle to Stop at Birmingham Station: Fans Pay Up to £1,000 for Britain’s Most Luxurious Train Experience
Data from the RAC highlights the financial impact: filling a 55-litre petrol tank now costs £87.69, £14.63 more than it did at the end of February. For diesel, the equivalent fill-up is £101.73, up by £23.42 since the onset of the conflict affecting fuel prices.
To mitigate these rising costs, the AA recommends drivers use fuel price tracking apps linked to the government’s Fuel Finder scheme. Prices vary significantly between stations, with some busy-route stations offering lower prices to attract passing motorists. Staying informed can help drivers find more affordable fuel options amidst fluctuating prices.