European Fuel Prices: A Steep Rise

how much has fuel gone up in europe

Fuel prices across Europe have been steadily increasing, with some countries seeing more significant hikes than others. As of May 2025, the average price of LPG in Europe has increased by €0.01 to €0.02, now sitting at €1.46 to €1.59 depending on the source. E5 (Super) fuel, the most common type in Europe, is 25-30% more expensive in the Netherlands, Iceland, and Great Britain compared to the European average. Similarly, B7 diesel fuel is widely available and found at every gas station, with prices varying across the continent. Historically, fuel prices in France and the UK have been similar, but since 2023, prices in France have surpassed those in the UK.

Characteristics Values
Date May 2025
Average LPG price in Europe €1.39–€1.59
Average LPG price change over the past month Increase of €0.01–€0.02
Highest LPG prices Great Britain, Netherlands, Switzerland
Most common type of fuel in Europe E5 (Super)
Countries where E5 (Super) is 25–30% more expensive than the European average Netherlands, Iceland, Great Britain
Countries where E5 (Super Plus) is much less common and more expensive, with prices up to 40% higher than the European average Great Britain, Netherlands, Switzerland
Other common type of fuel in Europe B7 Diesel
Fuel prices in France compared to the UK More expensive in France since the start of 2023

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Fuel prices vary across Europe

The location of petrol stations can also impact fuel prices. Petrol stations situated along highways tend to charge slightly higher prices, typically 10-20 eurocents more per litre, compared to those located near large shopping complexes. Additionally, the type of fuel influences the price; B7 diesel fuel, for example, is widely available across Europe and found at every gas station. Autogas (LPG) prices have also fluctuated, increasing by €0.02 to reach €1.46 on average in Europe, although prices vary by country.

Historical trends and regional differences also play a role in fuel price variations across Europe. Between mid-2020 and mid-2021, the UK had higher fuel prices than France. However, since the beginning of 2023, France has become more expensive for refuelling. These variations in fuel prices across Europe can significantly impact travellers' budgets and influence the cost of transportation and goods.

It is worth noting that fuel prices are subject to constant change due to various factors, including oil prices, taxation, and regional supply and demand dynamics. These fluctuations can occur within a short period, making it essential for travellers and businesses to stay updated on the latest fuel price information. Websites like Autotraveler.ru and RAC in the UK provide valuable resources for monitoring fuel prices and understanding the factors driving price changes.

Understanding these variations in fuel prices across Europe is essential for travellers and businesses alike. By staying informed about fuel price trends and factors influencing fuel costs, individuals can make more informed travel plans and budget accordingly. Additionally, businesses, especially those involved in transportation and logistics, can factor in fuel price variations when planning routes and pricing their services.

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LPG prices rose in May 2025

During the first quarter of 2025, LPG prices in the USA and China experienced fluctuations due to harsh winter weather, inventory levels, and varying demands from industries. In Europe, the average LPG price increased by €0.01 to €0.02, reaching €1.46 to €1.59. These prices are influenced by the accessibility of petrol stations and their locations, with stations on highways typically charging slightly higher prices.

The price of LPG is closely linked to international crude oil prices, and as crude oil prices fluctuate, LPG prices adjust accordingly. Predictions from energy agencies and investment banks suggest that global oil supply will surpass demand by over one million barrels in 2025, potentially leading to downward pressure on oil prices and, subsequently, LPG prices.

However, LPG consumption patterns and market dynamics play a significant role in price fluctuations. For instance, in China, LPG consumption for chemical applications exceeds that of combustion, with burning consumption accounting for about 40% and increasing during the winter due to heating demands. This seasonal impact on LPG prices is also evident in Brazil, where an increase in demand for heating fuels, particularly propane, a major component of LPG, led to price volatility.

Additionally, the circulation of LPG resources in the global market is expected to decrease from 2025 to 2030, according to SunSirs, which may further influence prices. As of July 28, 2025, the average price of LPG worldwide was 0.75 US dollars per liter, with variations among countries due to differing tax structures.

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E5 (Super) fuel is most common

E5 (Super) fuel is the most common type of fuel in Europe and can be found at every gasoline station. It is a mixture of 5% ethanol and 95% gasoline. The highest prices for E5 fuel are found in the Netherlands, Iceland, and Great Britain, where it is 25-30% more expensive than the European average. In comparison, E5 (Super Plus) fuel is much less common and not available in all countries.

E5 fuel users have reported varying experiences with fuel economy and engine performance. Some users have noticed a significant improvement in power and fuel economy when using E5 fuel, particularly on older bikes and vehicles with compatible engines. On the other hand, some users have observed no difference or even a slight decrease in fuel economy when using E5.

It is worth noting that ethanol, which is present in E5 fuel, can cause issues with fuel lines and delicate tubing or pipes if the engine is not designed to accommodate it. For this reason, it is generally recommended to use E5 fuel for older vehicles or when storing a vehicle for an extended period to avoid potential damage from ethanol-related issues.

Additionally, E5 fuel typically has a higher octane rating than regular E10 unleaded fuel, which can result in fewer stops at the petrol station for refueling during long trips, depending on the vehicle's engine specifications. However, it is important to consult the vehicle's manual and consider the age and condition of the engine before making a decision.

While E5 fuel offers certain advantages, it is important for vehicle owners to carefully consider their specific circumstances, including engine compatibility, fuel availability, and cost, to make an informed decision about the most suitable type of fuel for their needs.

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Diesel fuel is widely available

In 2016, almost all petroleum-based diesel fuel available in the United Kingdom, mainland Europe, and North America was of the ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) type. ULSD is a diesel fuel with substantially lowered sulfur content. The move to lower sulfur content has allowed for the application of advanced emissions control technologies, which substantially reduce harmful emissions from diesel combustion.

In the European Union, the "Euro IV" standard has applied since 2005, which specifies a maximum of 50 parts per million (ppm) of sulfur in diesel fuel for most highway vehicles. Ultra-low-sulfur diesel with a maximum of 10 ppm of sulfur has been widely available since 2008. In 2009, the Euro V fuel standard came into effect, which further reduced the maximum sulfur content to 10 ppm.

In Europe, diesel fuel is commonly used in trucks and buses, as well as in passenger cars with diesel engines. Diesel fuel is also available for agricultural applications, such as fuel for tractors and other non-commercial vehicles that do not use public roads. This type of diesel fuel is typically referred to as "untaxed diesel" or "red diesel" due to its red dye, which helps prevent and detect tax fraud.

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UK and France price comparison

Fuel prices in the UK and France have historically been very similar. Between mid-2020 and mid-2021, petrol and diesel were more expensive in the UK. However, since the start of 2023, it has become more expensive to fill up in France.

As of May 2025, the average price of LPG fuel in Europe is €1.46, an increase of €0.02 from the previous month. E5 (Super) is the most common type of fuel in Europe and is available at all gas stations. The highest prices for E5 (Super) are found in the Netherlands, Iceland, and Great Britain, where it is 25-30% more expensive than the European average.

In comparison, France has lower fuel prices than the UK. France's prices are similar to the European average for E5 (Super) fuel, which is €1.46.

The UK has some of the highest fuel prices in Europe. The average price of LPG fuel in the UK is €1.59, which is €0.13 more expensive than the European average. The UK also has the highest prices for E5 (Super Plus) fuel, which is a less common type of fuel in Europe. The difference between the UK's prices and the European average can reach up to 35-40%.

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Frequently asked questions

The average price of LPG fuel in Europe increased by €0.01 in May 2025, reaching €1.59.

The Netherlands, Iceland, and Great Britain. In these countries, E5 (Super) fuel is 25-30% more expensive than the European average.

E5 (Super) is the most widespread type of fuel in Europe and can be found at every gas station.

Yes, prices at highway petrol stations may be slightly higher (by 10-20 euro cents) than those near large shopping complexes.

Historically, fuel prices in France and the UK have been similar. Since 2023, it has become more expensive to fill up in France.

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