Motorway Fuel Stations Reveal Large Price Variations
**Motorists Can Save on Fuel Costs by Avoiding Motorway Service Stations**
A significant difference in fuel prices between motorway service stations and off-motorway service stations is impacting drivers' wallets, with motorway service stations charging notably higher prices due to their captive audience. In the UK, for instance, the average price of unleaded petrol nationwide is around 133.59p per litre, but this increases to approximately 158.12p per litre at motorway service stations—a difference of nearly 25p per litre[1].
To save money on fuel during travel, drivers can employ several strategies. Firstly, it's advisable to **avoid refueling at motorway service stations** and opt instead for off-motorway forecourts where prices are considerably lower[1].
Secondly, **using fuel price comparison apps and cash-back programs** like the Upside app can help find cheaper local gas stations and offer savings up to 25 cents per gallon or more through rewards and cash-back offers[2].
Thirdly, drivers should **skip premium or higher-octane fuel unless required** by their vehicle manufacturer, as paying for premium fuel can cost 20 to 40 cents more per gallon without delivering proportional benefits in efficiency or performance for most cars[2][4].
Lastly, planning refueling stops strategically by checking fuel prices ahead using apps or websites can help find the cheapest stations nearby, especially just before or after motorway journeys.
By combining these approaches—refueling off-motorway, leveraging technology to find better prices, and choosing the correct fuel grade—drivers can significantly reduce their fuel expenses during travel.
It's worth noting that 90% of motorway service stations charge at least 30 cents more for Super E10, and 88% for diesel[1]. Prices at service stations off the motorway fluctuate more than at motorway service stations, with up to 22 price changes per day compared to 2-3 at motorway service stations[1][2].
The ADAC, a German automobile association, argues that the extreme surcharges at motorway service stations are not justified by higher concession fees, personnel costs, and infrastructure maintenance[3]. The ADAC advises filling up at cheaper service stations the evening before long journeys.
Small detours to cheaper service stations next to the motorway can save over 20 euros per tank. For instance, at the Hochfelln-Nord rest area on the A8, Super E10 costs over 57 cents more per litre than nearby service stations[1]. However, prices at the Fuchsberg Nord rest area are only one cent more per litre than the nearest station[1].
In conclusion, by being mindful of fuel prices and strategically planning refueling stops, motorists can significantly reduce their travel costs. It's best to leave the motorway for refueling, as the small detour is usually worth it. Fuel price apps can help find cheaper service stations, making it easier for drivers to save money on the go.
[1] - Source: FuelPriceMonitor.com [2] - Source: Upside.com [3] - Source: ADAC.de [4] - Source: AAA.com
Drivers in the other industry, such as the automotive sector, can follow the advice given to motorists and save on fuel costs by avoiding fueling at motorway service stations, where prices are significantly higher. Instead, they can opt for off-motorway service stations or use fuel price comparison apps and cash-back programs to find cheaper local fuel stations, similar to the strategies employed by motorists. Furthermore, skipping premium or higher-octane fuel unless it's necessary, as it can cost extra without delivering proportional benefits in efficiency or performance, can also help in minimizing fuel expenses.
