Fuel duty freeze extended: what the Autumn Budget means for UK drivers

What the fuel duty freeze means for UK drivers

The Autumn Budget has brought several announcements for UK motorists, including changes to business mileage allowance rates for people who use their own vehicles for work.

The government has also announced another freeze on fuel duty alongside the continuation of the 5p cut, avoiding an immediate increase in fuel duty for motorists. However, a freeze doesn't necessarily mean drivers will see fuel prices fall, so it's still important to look at easy changes you can make to keep your own fuel costs down.

How to keep your fuel costs down

Compare local fuel prices ⛽

One of the simplest things drivers can do is compare local fuel prices before filling up. Even a small difference in the price per litre can add up over time, particularly if you drive regularly or cover longer distances.

Keep your vehicle maintained 🧽

Keeping your vehicle properly maintained can also help improve fuel efficiency. Regularly checking your tyre pressure, staying on top of servicing, and avoiding carrying unnecessary weight in the vehicle can all help reduce the amount of fuel you use.

Make small changes to how you drive 🚗

How you drive can make a difference too. Planning more efficient routes, avoiding unnecessary idling and driving smoothly rather than accelerating and braking harshly can help make your fuel go further.

 

Ultimately, while the continued fuel duty cut offers some reassurance for motorists, fuel remains just one part of the overall cost of running a car. Keeping track of your fuel, insurance, finance, servicing, and maintenance costs together can make it easier to budget and identify areas where you may be able to save.

While drivers can't control every change in fuel prices, making small adjustments to everyday driving habits and planning ahead can help make motoring costs easier to manage.