Fuel Prices Plunge: Petrol and Diesel Drop by 6.5p a Litre in September
Drivers are celebrating as petrol and diesel prices have taken a sharp dive. September saw a hefty 6.5p per litre drop – the ninth biggest monthly slump since 2000, according to RAC Fuel Watch. That means motorists are now saving around £3.60 every time they fill up.
Petrol and Diesel Slammed Down
- Unleaded petrol fell from 141.26p to 134.79p per litre in September.
- Diesel prices dropped from 146p to 139.5p per litre.
- A full 55-litre petrol tank now costs £74, while diesel is just under £77.
What’s Driving the Drop?
The fuel price plunge is linked to crude oil costs, which slid from $78 to $72 a barrel over the month. That’s a big dip, especially compared to early July when prices flirted with $90. A stronger pound against the dollar is also making wholesale fuel cheaper for UK retailers, passing the savings straight to your local pump.
Big Savings Since May – And More to Come
- Petrol prices have tumbled 15.5p per litre since May, saving drivers £8.50 a tank.
- Diesel took an even bigger hit, down 18.5p per litre, translating into £10 off a full tank.
- The RAC forecasts further cuts of up to 4p per litre in the coming weeks.
Shoppers filling up at the big four supermarkets score even sharper deals, with petrol at 131.86p and diesel at 136.47p – about 3p below the UK average.
RAC’s Take: More Relief Could Be on the Way
“Drivers will be very pleased to see prices falling so fast – 6.5p a litre in one month is a hefty saving,” said Simon Williams, RAC head of policy. “Since May, unleaded has dropped 15.5p and diesel 18.5p. This is mainly thanks to cheaper oil and a stronger pound.”
He added: “With oil likely to keep falling amid global economic worries and Saudi Arabia boosting output, drivers can expect brighter days at the pumps.”
Top Tips to Save Even More Fuel Cash
Want to squeeze even more from your fuel budget? The free myRAC app’s fuel finder can spot the cheapest prices within a 10-mile radius, making sure you never overpay at the pumps. Available on both the App Store and Google Play.
For the latest price updates and thorough breakdowns, visit the RAC Fuel Watch online resource.
