Fuel Prices Surge as Petrol Hits Highest July Cost Since 2013
Petrol Prices Spike to New Highs
July saw the steepest jump in unleaded petrol prices since January. The average cost now stands at 135.13p per litre — a figure not seen since September 2013. At the start of the month, petrol was 131.76p per litre. Diesel prices also climbed, hitting 137.06p per litre, up from 134.36p.
This means July was the priciest for petrol since 2013 and for diesel since 2014. Filling a typical 55-litre petrol tank now costs £3.08 more than in early June and a hefty £11.47 more than last year. Diesel drivers aren’t much better off — they pay £2.90 more than in June and £10.46 more than in July 2020 for the same tank size.
Demand Soars as Post-Pandemic Bounce Boosts Prices
Global optimism after ongoing coronavirus vaccination progress and eased restrictions is driving up oil demand. Although crude prices barely moved over July, oil nearly touched $80 a barrel early in the month. When demand outpaces supply, wholesale fuel prices rise — and drivers feel the pinch at the pumps.
Shop Around for the Cheapest Fill-Ups
Drivers are advised to stick to supermarket fuel stations this summer for better deals. Petrol is roughly 3p cheaper per litre on average at supermarkets compared to typical UK prices (132.34p vs 135.13p) and more than 16p cheaper than motorway service stations (132.34p vs 148.78p).
RAC Warns: Prices Set to Climb Even Higher
RAC fuel spokesman Simon Williams said: “Prices are only going one way — up. With another staycation summer underway, it’s getting costly for families relying on cars for holidays across the UK. Sadly, drivers can’t escape these high prices. Our best tip? Drive economically to stretch your money further.”
“It’s hard to see prices dropping soon. As economies reopen, oil demand is rising and pushing wholesale prices higher. Unless major oil producers crank up output, forecourt prices may jump further later this summer.”
“The silver lining? Petrol would need to rise about another 3p per litre to beat the 2013 highs. But that’s little comfort for millions already paying more than they have in years.”
“For those looking to change their wheels soon, consider an electric vehicle. Running costs are much lower now, and upfront prices are more affordable. The RAC offers a lease on a zero-emission 40kW Nissan Leaf for just £227.99 a month after a small initial payment.”
Regional Petrol & Diesel Price Changes in July
Petrol prices jumped across the UK, led by the East Midlands with a 3.71p rise to 134.79p. The West Midlands and North West saw increases of 3.70p and 3.52p, respectively. London’s petrol prices rose 2.73p to 135.86p.
Diesel price hikes were highest in the West Midlands (+3.07p to 137.46p) and East (+3.04p to 138.00p). Northern Ireland saw the smallest diesel rise at 2.21p to 132.50p.
