UK diesel prices have hit a record 199.18p per litre as Middle East conflict disrupts oil supplies and raises transport costs.
Diesel Prices Break New Record
Diesel prices in the UK have reached a record 199.18p per litre, according to the RAC. The sharp rise comes as conflict in the Middle East disrupts global oil supplies.
Petrol prices have also climbed to 174.13p per litre. However, petrol remains below its previous record high.
The RAC says diesel prices have entered “uncharted territory”. The motoring organisation also warned that the UK remains exposed to events far beyond its borders.
Since the conflict between the US and Iran began in February, diesel prices have jumped by 59p per litre. That represents an increase of almost 40%.
Filling Up Is Now More Expensive
The latest increase means drivers now face a much bigger fuel bill. Filling an average family car with diesel costs about £110. That is £31 more than it was at the start of the conflict.
Meanwhile, petrol now costs 41p more per litre than it did when the conflict began. Rising fuel costs could also affect the prices of everyday goods.
RAC head of policy Simon Williams warned that the diesel record would bring “pain not only at the pumps for drivers, but for everyone who buys goods or services that rely on diesel lorries and vans.”
He added that businesses would likely pass the extra costs to consumers.
Oil Supply Faces Fresh Pressure
Brent crude, a key global oil benchmark, now trades around $108 per barrel. Before the US-Iran conflict began, it stood at about $73. Global diesel supplies have also tightened. The conflict has affected the movement of crude oil and refined diesel across the region.
Russia has added more pressure to the market. The country recently restricted diesel exports after attacks hit several of its refineries.
Diesel also remains difficult to replace because trucks, farms and other industries depend heavily on it.
Why UK Drivers Feel the Impact
The UK relies heavily on imported diesel. British refineries produce enough petrol for domestic demand, but diesel production falls short.
The country had 15.1 million diesel vehicles on its roads by the end of June. That figure fell from 15.7 million the previous year.
Diesel cars also dropped from 10.4 million to 9.8 million during the same period.
For now, drivers may have to brace for higher costs. Williams says pump prices will only fall after oil prices stay lower for “several weeks, not days.”
