Millions of van drivers across the UK are facing an estimated £2.5 billion increase in diesel costs this year, prompting renewed calls for the government to scrap its planned fuel duty rise.

Owners of diesel-powered vans and pickup trucks are expected to spend almost £8.5 billion on fuel this year, according to analysis by price comparison website MoneySuperMarket for The Guardian.

The projected spending represents a significant increase from the £5.95 billion recorded last year, as diesel prices climb amid global fuel supply disruptions linked to refinery problems in the Middle East and Russia.

The rising cost of fuel has also raised concerns about the potential impact on the prices of food and other goods transported by road. Retailers and businesses that rely on vans for deliveries could pass their increased operating costs on to consumers.

MoneySuperMarket warned last week that the average annual fuel bill for a van driver could reach £1,965 this year, compared with £1,294 in 2025. The estimates are based on typical annual mileage and fuel consumption.

With transport costs expected to put further pressure on businesses and households, the rising diesel bill has intensified calls for the government to reconsider its planned fuel duty increase.

The scale of the additional costs could have wider implications for the UK economy, particularly for small businesses and delivery operators that depend heavily on diesel-powered vehicles.

Written by Onyinkansola