Every petrol and diesel driver in the UK is affected by a crucial new fuel update introduced this October. Earlier this year, the UK Government launched its FuelFinder service, a scheme which forces retailers to publish up-to-date petrol and diesel pump price information. The data was being distributed to third-party apps such as the RAC, AA and PetrolPrices, but a move this October has made the process much simpler in a boost for road users.
Motorists can now real-time search petrol price data on Google Maps, with the service teaming up with the UK Government to implement the new tool. Drivers simply need to search for “petrol” or “fuel” on Google Maps to see the latest price information, ensuring road users can always secure the best rates.
The move could be a massive help to cash-strapped Britons as rising petrol and diesel fuel costs continue to cause a headache for drivers. Minister for Energy Consumers Polly Billington stressed the new policy could be a complete “gamechanger” for road users.
She said: “Tackling the affordability crisis is our first responsibility and for so many families and businesses, petrol and diesel are essential goods, not luxuries. Accessing the cheapest fuel should be simple, which is why it is a gamechanger for near real-time fuel prices to be shown on Google Maps for the first time in the UK, helping drivers to find the best deal and save money at the pump.”
Disruption in the Middle East has sent wholesale oil prices soaring, with diesel fees crossing the previous all-time high of £2 per litre earlier this month. According to officials, comparing fuel prices before topping up can help drivers enjoy massive savings of up to £40 per year.
Comparing fuel costs could save drivers £40 per year (Image: Getty)
Previous analysis has found that the UK’s Fuel Finder service was being adopted by forecourts, with the service now covering 99% of all petrol and diesel sold on UK roads.
Sarah-Jayne Williams, Director of Global Product Partnerships for Geo at Google, said: “Navigating fuel rising costs shouldn’t add stress to everyday journeys.
“Integrating Fuel Finder data into Google Maps and Waze gives drivers visibility on nearby pump prices, helping drivers make intentional choices to help their budgets go further this winter. Go on and give it a try today!”