Prices of petrol at Swiss pumps have been rising steadily. Now diesel has become the most expensive it’s ever been.
According to the TCS motoring organisation, which keeps track of the fuel price evolution in Switzerland, the average price of diesel in Switzerland on September 18th has hit a record high.
At 2.41 francs charged per litre – an increase of 11 cents in a single week – it now exceeds the previous record of 2.40 francs set in 2022.
In both cases – now and then – prices surged due to political tensions: in 2022, it happened due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, while this time, “the war involving Iran and disruptions to oil flows in the Middle East are exerting significant pressure on oil and refined product markets.”
“These factors compound the impact of the war in Ukraine: exports of diesel and gasoline from Russia have dropped sharply—or even ceased entirely – and several Russian oil facilities and refineries have been hit,” the TCS said.
“Consequently, diesel supplies on international markets are particularly tight” – hence the high price.
What about prices of other fuel grades?
Unleaded 95 – the most commonly used in Switzerland – has also become more expensive, having reached 2.10 francs per litre – an increase of 5 cents in a span of week, TCS reports.
However, in both cases, geo-political conflicts are not the only explanations for price hikes.
Another reason is climate crisis – namely, the persistent drought which Switzerland – and Europe in general – experienced this summer.
It has caused the water level in the Rhine river to drop, so fewer tankers can transport fuel from the North Sea ports to Basel, from which it is distributed to Swiss petrol stations.
The ‘three 5s’ rule
While motorists cannot influence petrol prices, you can find ways to save while filling up your vehicle, the motoring organisation said.
For instance, its price tracker shows where in Switzerland prices are lowest at any given time, But before you drive off to the cheapest one, practice the TCS’ “three 5s” rule.
Concretely, driving an extra five km to the cheapest station in your area pays off only if the fuel price is at least 5 cents per litre lower than elsewhere – and also provided you fill up with at least 50 litres.
