Record-breaking fuel prices at a four-year low, providing a financial respite for drivers attempting French road trips.
In August 2021, motorists in France experienced a reprieve from high fuel prices as retailers E.Leclerc and U network temporarily sold fuel at or near cost price. This move was part of competitive strategies by major French retailers to support consumers and limit the impact of price inflation on motorists.
During this period, over 1500 service stations participated in the cost-price fuel operation, with 711 of E.Leclerc and 807 of U network taking part. The average price of diesel in July was 1.62 euros per litre, and that of unleaded 95 was 1.66 euros. However, due to the cost-price fuel initiative, motorists saved approximately 8 cents per litre for diesel and 13 cents for unleaded 95 compared to the same period last year.
The reductions in fuel prices for thermal vehicles and electric vehicle charging are due to a slow but steady decline in the price of Brent crude oil and other economic factors. The drop in crude oil prices is not directly related to the tariffs imposed by Donald Trump, but rather to the prospect of a slowdown in global trade and fuel consumption. The global economic uncertainty and the trade war launched by Trump in April 2025 have contributed to the drop in oil prices.
Simultaneously, the price of electric vehicle charging has decreased significantly. French company Electra, which operates charging stations for electric vehicles, is allowing subscribers to pay 29 cents per kWh instead of the average 54 cents until the end of the summer. This results in a saving of 4 euros and 6.60 euros for a 50-litre tank.
The drop in oil prices is also reflected in the current prices. WTI crude is around 69 dollars, compared to 74 dollars in 2024 and 79 dollars two years ago. Brent crude is currently around 71 dollars per barrel, a 10% decrease from 79 dollars on the same day last year and 86 dollars in 2023.
In response to the increased demand for oil, OPEC+ members have agreed to increase their production by an additional 548,000 barrels per day for the month of August. This move is aimed at securing new market shares and addressing the slow but steady decline in oil prices.
The euro has also strengthened against the dollar, from 1.02 in January to the current 1.16, further contributing to the decrease in fuel prices for European consumers.
- The reductions in fuel prices, including those for electric vehicles, have contributed to a lower cost of lifestyle, allowing consumers to save on their travel expenses.
- Meanwhile, the decrease in the price of Brent crude oil and other economic factors have led to a drop in the cost of financing cars, making them more affordable for consumers.
