Diesel hits all-time record of 199.18p a litre as Trump considers US export curbs that could push prices even higher

From the Newshound archive · first published 28 September 2026.

Diesel has smashed its all-time record high at 199.18p per litre, topping the previous peak of 199.09p set in June 2022, with the RAC warning prices have entered "uncharted territory." Seven months of war in the Middle East have severely disrupted oil production and transportation, pushing petrol to 174.13p a litre and filling an average diesel car to £110 — £31 more than at the start of the conflict. Experts warn the 200p barrier is now likely to fall, with Trump's consideration of US oil export curbs threatening to pile on further pain.

RAC head of policy Simon Williams warned the record "spells pain not only at the pumps but for everyone who buys goods or services that rely on diesel lorries and vans."

Williams said prices will not fall until there is a "sustained lower oil price — over several weeks, not days," offering little comfort to drivers or businesses.

Diesel car values are also crashing as the record pump prices drive buyers away from diesel vehicles.