Diesel prices in the UK are now the most expensive in Europe far outstripping prices anywhere else on the continent, says The AA Motoring Trust.One in five motorists now own a diesel vehicle in the UK, with drivers paying on average 26p a litre more than in other European countries.
Bert Morris, deputy director of The AA Motoring Trust, says: With fuel prices rising across the continent, many drivers in Europe are able to select diesel for cheaper motoring, a choice UK motorists do not enjoy as, uniquely in Europe, diesel is more expensive in the UK than petrol.
Diesel in the UK is averaging 82.63p a litre at the moment while the French pay 56.54p a difference of 46 per cent. Whilst in Ireland 55.21p a 50 per cent difference. Forty per cent of cars sold in Europe are diesel, with lower pump prices an attraction for many European car buyers.
Morris added: Any UK holidaymakers taking a diesel car abroad this summer will really notice the difference when filling up as they will be saving themselves 26p a litre if travelling to France.
For instance, filling up a family car in the UK at the moment with a tank-full of diesel could cost you in the region of 45; in France it would cost 28 for the same car. If you are going across the Channel to buy Duty Free as well there are of course more savings to be gained. ends/more
