Diesel prices have reached their highest level in over three years, placing additional pressure on motorists as the conflict in the Middle East drives up global energy costs.
According to RAC data, drivers are now paying an average of 171.19p per litre, which is a rise of more than 20% since late February.
This sharp increase means that filling a typical family diesel car now costs around £94, roughly £16 more than at the beginning of the conflict.
Simon Williams stated that diesel motorists are facing the brunt of the crisis, describing the situation as “far worse” than for petrol drivers.
Households are really feeling the impact of the conflict in the Middle East,” he said, adding that drivers can expect a “rough ride” leading up to Easter, with further price increases anticipated.
Petrol prices have also risen, with unleaded petrol climbing above 147p per litre, bringing the cost of filling a standard car to around £81 — the highest level since last summer. This surge has been driven by oil prices remaining above $100 a barrel, amid ongoing disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global energy supplies that Iran has closed.
Analysts warn that diesel prices could soon approach 180p per litre, raising the possibility of the most expensive Easter for drivers since the aftermath of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, when pump prices briefly neared record highs.
