Overview
- RAC figures published on Monday show the UK average price of diesel has hit 199.18p per litre, making a typical 55‑litre fill about £109–£110.
- The rise tracks overlapping supply shocks from the US–Iran war, ongoing Russia–Ukraine fighting and damage to refiners and shipping routes that have tightened refined diesel availability.
- The UK’s heavy reliance on imported diesel means wholesale tightness and Brent crude above $100 have translated quickly into higher retail pump prices.
- Motoring groups warn higher diesel will raise costs for hauliers, farmers and small businesses and is likely to be passed on to consumers, while the Chancellor, John Healey, has said any change to duty will be announced at the Budget on 28 October.
- Drivers face wide local variation with many motorway forecourts near or above £2 per litre, regulators are monitoring margins, and consumer services such as Fuel Finder and MoneyHelper urge motorists to shop around because only a sustained fall in oil prices is likely to cut pump costs.