It's risen by 77% in 2009. This week the International Energy Agency announced that this increase "risks derailing the recovery".
Higher fuel prices aren't good news for the thousands of businesses in the UK who run vehicles, or the millions of commuters who fill up weekly. For employees enduring pay freezes or pay cuts a hefty increase in travel costs is unwelcome. But it's happening right now.
There's no easy answer to the problem of increasing fuel costs. But here are some fuel saving tips:
- Drive more slowly - yes, it'll take longer to get there. But drive at 65mph rather than 75mph on the motorway and you'll save 40p per 10 miles, according to the RAC. It'll add up during the week.
- Gentle foot action - on the accelerator and the brake. Sudden braking or acceleration pushes up consumption and increases wear and tear.
- Close the windows - it will improve the aerodynamics and improve fuel efficiency. You'll stay warmer as well.
- Keep air-con off - it's another fuel-gobbler you can live without during the winter.
- Lighten the load - the heavier your car, the more fuel you use. How much stuff are you paying to transport from home to work and back again, without using it?
- Get the pressure right - the RAC say that using tyres at the correct pressure could improve your fuel efficiency by 2%. Not a lot, but look after the pennies and the pounds look after themselves, as they say.
- Don't be idle - if you're stationary and the engine's running for more than a minute you're wasting fuel.
- Avoid the queues - easier said than done for many commuters, but it's a way to cut costs. Is there a way to flex your day so you can travel when others aren't?
- Regular servicing - keep the engine running at optimum efficiency.
- Use money-off tokens wisely - the supermarkets often give token to customers, valid for a week or two. Plan your fill-ups to get the best value. Find friends with spare tokens, or share yours.
If you come across any more fuel saving tips please leave a comment or get in touch.
