Working out how much it really costs to drive in the UK can feel confusing. Fuel prices move up and down, and electric charging costs vary depending on where and how you charge. That’s why many drivers search for a fuel cost calculator UK — to get a clear idea of their running costs.
While we don’t offer an online calculator here, this guide shows you exactly how to calculate fuel cost in the UK yourself, with real-world 2025 prices for petrol, diesel, and electric cars.
How to Calculate Fuel Cost in the UK
The formula is simple:
Fuel Cost = Distance ÷ MPG × Fuel Price per Litre
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Distance = how far you’re driving (e.g. 100 miles)
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MPG (miles per gallon) = your car’s fuel efficiency
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Fuel Price per Litre = latest UK average fuel price
For electric cars, the calculation is:
Cost = Distance × Energy Consumption (kWh per mile) × Electricity Price (per kWh)
Average UK Fuel & Energy Prices (2025)
Based on UK averages (August 2025):
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Petrol (Unleaded): £1.34 per litre
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Diesel: £1.42 per litre
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Electric charging (home tariff): ~34p per kWh
These prices will change over time, but they provide a reliable benchmark for cost-per-mile comparisons.
Fuel Cost per Mile UK: Petrol, Diesel & Electric Compared (2025)
Here’s how much it costs to drive 100 miles in 2025:
Fuel Type |
Typical Efficiency |
100 Miles Cost |
Cost per Mile |
---|---|---|---|
Petrol |
40 MPG |
~£14.70 |
~15p |
Diesel |
45 MPG |
~£14.20 |
~14p |
Electric |
250 Wh/mile |
~£8.50 |
~9p |
As shown, EV running costs UK are typically 40–45% cheaper than petrol or diesel per mile, making electric cars more affordable for regular drivers.
Also check: Petrol vs Diesel: Which is Right for You?
Petrol vs Diesel vs Electric: Which Is Cheaper in 2025?
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Petrol cars: Still popular, but costs add up quickly for long-distance driving.
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Diesel cars: Slightly better mileage than petrol, but higher pump prices and tax rules make savings marginal.
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Electric cars: Lowest cost per mile, especially with home charging. Public rapid chargers can be more expensive, but still competitive with fuel.
Check Options to Save on Fuel
Looking to explore more about reducing your motoring costs? Check out:
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No Deposit Car Leasing – spread the cost without upfront payments
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Electric Car Lease Deals – drive the latest EVs with lower running costs
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Used Electric Car Leasing – affordable way to go electric
FAQs About Fuel Cost Calculators
Several online tools can help estimate your fuel costs based on current prices and mileage.
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Petrol: ~£14.70
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Diesel: ~£14.20
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Electric: ~£8.50
(As on August 2025)
Yes, EVs are the cheapest per mile, around half the cost of petrol or diesel when charged at home.
Yes! In 2025, electric cars are cheaper per mile and exempt from ULEZ charges, making them a highly cost-effective choice.
Yes, by applying the formula and current fuel prices, you can calculate your own journey costs.