Fuel Cost Calculator
Calculate the fuel cost for any journey based on your car's fuel efficiency and current fuel prices.
Journey Details
Total Fuel Cost
£37.38
Litres Used
25.3L
Cost per Mile
15.0p
Cost per 100 Miles
£14.95
UK Fuel Costs Explained
Fuel costs are one of the largest ongoing expenses for UK drivers. As of 2024, the average price of unleaded petrol in the UK is around 145–155 pence per litre, while diesel typically costs 150–160 pence per litre. Prices vary significantly by region and retailer.
Your car's fuel efficiency is usually measured in miles per gallon (MPG) in the UK, though European cars often quote consumption in litres per 100 kilometres (L/100km). The official MPG figures quoted by manufacturers are tested under laboratory conditions and are typically 15–25% higher than real-world driving efficiency.
Fuel efficiency is affected by driving style, speed, tyre pressure, vehicle load, and weather conditions. Motorway driving at a steady 60–65 mph is generally the most fuel-efficient, while stop-start urban driving significantly increases fuel consumption.
For business travel, HMRC's approved mileage rate is 45p per mile for the first 10,000 miles per year in a private car, and 25p per mile thereafter. This rate is designed to cover fuel, wear and tear, and other running costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current average petrol price in the UK?
As of 2024, the average price of unleaded petrol is approximately 145–155 pence per litre. Prices fluctuate with global oil prices and can vary by 10–15p between the cheapest and most expensive stations.
How do I convert MPG to L/100km?
Divide 282.48 by the MPG figure to get L/100km. For example, 45 MPG = 282.48 / 45 = 6.3 L/100km. This calculator handles the conversion automatically.
What is a good MPG for a UK car?
For a petrol car, 40–50 MPG is considered good. Diesel cars typically achieve 50–65 MPG. Hybrid vehicles can achieve 60–80 MPG. The UK average is around 40 MPG for petrol cars.
Can I claim fuel costs for business travel?
Yes. HMRC's approved mileage rate for the first 10,000 business miles per year is 45p per mile in a private car. Beyond 10,000 miles, the rate drops to 25p per mile.