The average price of diesel in the United Kingdom(UK) has reached £2 per litre for the first time, marking a new record for motorists amid a sharp rise in fuel prices.
According to the latest RAC Fuel Watch data, the UK-wide average price of diesel reached 200.01 pence per litre on Friday, October 2, 2026. The figure is up from 199.79 pence on Thursday and has surpassed the previous record of 199.09 pence, set in June 2022.
RISING COSTS PUT PRESSURE ON MOTORISTS
The latest increase means that filling a typical 55-litre diesel tank costs £110.01, according to the RAC. That is £31.70 more than the cost of filling the same-sized tank on February 28.
RAC head of policy Simon Williams said the £2-per-litre threshold was one that “no-one wanted to cross”, adding that the average diesel price had reached a record 200.01 pence and was showing no signs of slowing.
Williams said the higher prices would be challenging for households and businesses that rely heavily on road transport, including commuters, haulage and delivery companies, large fleets and sole traders.
The RAC estimates that for an average diesel vehicle achieving 45 miles per gallon, the current fuel price works out at about 20 pence per mile. A motorist travelling 10,000 miles a year would therefore spend about £2,020 on diesel.
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GLOBAL ENERGY PRESSURES
The record UK diesel price comes as fuel markets face wider international pressures linked to disruptions in global energy supplies and the conflict in the Middle East.
The RAC said petrol prices have also increased, with unleaded petrol reaching an average of 174.71 pence per litre. A 55-litre petrol tank now costs about £96.09.
European governments are also discussing measures to respond to rising fuel costs. EU countries discussed a French proposal to release diesel stocks, while French President Emmanuel Macron is expected to discuss global crude and refined-product markets with other G7 leaders.
The situation has also raised concerns about fuel supplies in Britain. However, UK Transport Minister Keir Mather said on Friday that the country’s diesel supply remains resilient because fuel comes from a range of sources.
The government has also extended the 5p-per-litre fuel-duty cut until the end of the year, while the RAC has called for further measures to ease pressure on motorists.
The latest record highlights the growing impact of international energy-market pressures on motorists and businesses in the UK, with further developments expected as governments consider measures to address rising fuel costs.
