Millions of British van drivers are set to shoulder an additional £2.5bn in diesel costs this year as pump prices surge, an analysis for the Guardian has found. The report estimates the average annual fuel bill for owners of diesel vans and pickups could rise to £1,965 from £1,294.
Owners of diesel vans and pickups are expected to spend almost £8.5bn at the pump across the year, the analysis says, after diesel prices climbed to record levels. The rise in prices has been linked to a global fuel shortage blamed on disruption to refineries in the Middle East and Russia.
Drivers' costs and government policy
The findings have reignited calls for the government to scrap a planned increase in fuel duty, with critics saying the additional levy would worsen the squeeze on households and small businesses that rely on vans for their livelihoods. The analysis has heightened pressure on ministers to reconsider the taxation timetable as operating costs for van owners rise.
Supply pressures push prices higher
Industry observers point to refinery disruptions overseas as a key factor behind the price spike, with tighter global supplies pushing wholesale diesel costs up and translating into higher prices at UK pumps. The surge has contributed to record diesel prices, compounding broader concerns about energy and transport affordability.
Economic implications
Higher diesel bills are likely to raise operating costs for firms and self-employed workers who depend on vans for deliveries, trades and services. While some businesses may absorb the increase, others could pass the added expense on to consumers or face margin pressures, particularly among smaller operators with limited pricing power.
The analysis has put a spotlight on the intersection of global supply shocks and domestic tax policy, prompting debate over how best to shield vulnerable road users and small businesses from volatile fuel markets without undermining broader fiscal goals.