Millions of us could soon access the latest petrol prices instantly from our mobile device using apps and websites.

Pumpwatch is a new scheme launched by the government in March this year, to make petrol pricing more transparent for all motorists. It legally requires all British fuel stations across the UK to share real-time price information. The move should enable drivers to find the best prices at any time.

Government minister, Amanda Solloway, said, “We want fuel prices at your fingertips, refreshed within 30 minutes of changing, so everyone can save when filling up their tank.”

By forcing retailers to be clear about how much they are charging for fuel, as well as giving drivers the ability to compare prices in real time, the goal of Pumpwatch is to help drive down prices.

Twelve of the biggest retailers, including all four fuel-selling supermarkets, have signed up to the scheme which is run by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). The CMA reported last year that some retailers failed to pass on savings – charging drivers 6p more per litre.

Drivers lost out when wholesale fuel prices fell but reductions were not passed on quickly or fully by retailers.

There was cold comfort for drivers as the first drop in two years in average insurance prices was recorded. In the first three months of 2024, the average was £941, according to comparison site Confused.com and insurance broker WTW. This was down from £995 in late 2023 but still up 43 per cent on the same time last year.

The costs for young drivers continue to soar, however. The average insurance quote for 17-year olds was £2,919. Labour MP, Angela Eagle, told a House of Commons committee that drivers “feel that insurance is becoming more of a rip-off”.

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