Diesel hits highest price since Christmas 2022 as pump costs surge – RAC

Diesel prices have reached their highest level since Christmas Day 2022, with further increases expected in the coming days, according to the RAC Fuel Watch.

Average diesel prices rose to 177.66p per litre on 26th March, a level last seen nearly three years ago, while petrol is set to exceed 150p per litre for the first time since mid-May 2024.

RAC data showed that petrol prices increased from 132.83p per litre on 28th February to 149.82p by 26th March, a rise of 17.0p, equivalent to a 12.8% increase over the period.

Diesel prices rose even more sharply, climbing from 142.38p to 176.66p per litre.

The increases come amid sustained pressure on wholesale fuel costs, with the RAC warning that prices could continue to rise in the short term.

Simon Williams, head of policy at the RAC, said: “Diesel is now averaging 177.66p a litre – a price last seen on Christmas Day 2022, 10 months after Russia invaded Ukraine.

“A litre of petrol is set to break through the 150p mark tomorrow, which will be the first time this has happened since mid-May two years ago.

“Our analysis of wholesale fuel data points towards petrol continuing to rise to 152p a litre and diesel to 185p, possibly higher.