The Government has confirmed that the current freeze on fuel duty will now remain in place until the end of 2026, aiming to support motorists and businesses facing sustained fuel price increases.
This extension, originally scheduled to conclude in September, is designed to offset the rising costs at the pumps, driven in part by ongoing instability in the Middle East.
Recent figures show that petrol prices have climbed to 158.52p per litre, a 19.3% year-on-year increase, while diesel has surged by 30.6%. April also saw a notable 10.2% drop in fuel sales compared to March, the sharpest decline since November 2020. Retailers attribute this trend to drivers making fewer journeys and postponing refuelling in response to high prices.
As a result, more UK motorists are transitioning to electric vehicles, with EV registrations up 59.1% in April versus the same month last year. This growing interest in electric vehicles highlights the importance for the automotive retail and aftercare sectors to ensure EV drivers receive the same quality of service as those with internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.
AX and Motor Assist remains committed to supporting dealerships and their customers through these market shifts. Our nationwide network of approved bodyshops is equipped to handle repairs for all vehicle types and provide like-for-like replacement vehicles, including EVs, when required.
Our latest programme, EValuate, allows ICE drivers who need a replacement vehicle to opt for an extended test drive in an EV, offering a valuable real-world introduction to electric motoring. This initiative helps dealerships familiarise customers with the EV experience while supporting the transition to cleaner transport.
Our unique electric vehicle test drive initiative helps to boost demand for EVs.
It gives petrol, diesel and hybrid car drivers the opportunity to experience what the electrification transition is like.
