Asger Risom
Motorists filling up on the UK’s motorways are being hit with eye-watering fuel costs in January, paying a hidden premium that pushes petrol prices to around 20p per mile – even as average pump prices fall elsewhere.
Drivers already struggling with the cost of living are facing yet another squeeze at the pumps, with motorway service stations charging dramatically more for fuel than regular forecourts.
While official figures show petrol prices easing across the UK, those forced to refuel on major routes like the M1, M5 and M25 are paying what many now describe as a “motorway tax”.
Petrol prices fall – but not on the motorway
According to the latest data from the RAC, the average price of unleaded petrol across the UK currently sits at around 134p per litre. Diesel prices are slightly higher, at roughly 143p per litre.
But that national average masks a much harsher reality for drivers who rely on motorway services.
Fuel at motorway service stations is now priced at an average of 157p per litre for unleaded petrol – a premium so steep it makes motorway petrol more expensive than diesel bought off the motorway network.
Why motorway fuel now costs 20p per mile
When the higher motorway price is combined with typical fuel efficiency, the scale of the extra cost becomes clear.
Data from car insurance firm NimbleFins shows the average petrol car in the UK achieves around 36 miles per gallon. At motorway fuel prices of roughly 157p per litre, that translates to a running cost of about 20p per mile.
By comparison, filling up at standard petrol stations at the national average price brings the cost closer to 17p per mile.
That 3p difference may sound small, but over long motorway journeys it quickly adds up – especially for commuters, delivery drivers and families travelling long distances.
Drivers feel trapped by motorway pricing
Unlike town and city driving, motorists on the motorway often have little choice but to use service stations when fuel runs low. Detours can be impractical, time-consuming, or impossible during long journeys.
Consumer groups have long criticised motorway fuel pricing, arguing that drivers are effectively penalised for convenience and safety.
For many motorists, the situation feels unavoidable – and unfair.
Petrol still far more expensive than EV travel
The figures also reignite debate around transport costs as the government prepares to introduce pay-per-mile charges for electric vehicles from 2028.
Under current proposals, EV drivers would pay a tax of around 3p per mile, alongside home-charging costs. Even when combined, EV running costs are estimated to range between 5p and 11p per mile – still far below the cost of petrol, especially on the motorway.
Motoring groups warn that headline fuel prices no longer tell the full story for drivers, with location now playing a major role in how much people really pay to stay on the road.
Cost-of-living pressure continues for motorists
With fuel duty frozen but prices still volatile, drivers remain exposed to sharp regional differences that hit hardest when people have the fewest options.
As millions rely on motorways for work, travel and family commitments, the growing gap between average petrol prices and motorway costs is fuelling anger – and raising fresh questions about fairness at the pump.
Sources: RAC Fuel Watch, Nimblefins, UK government
