French motorists heading home on the final summer holiday weekend are facing sharply higher fuel costs, prompting automotive expert Aleth d'Assignies to share practical guidance on reducing travel expenses.
Speaking on the French television programme Bonjour ! Avec vous, d'Assignies noted that millions of drivers are taking to congested roads as petrol and diesel prices reach some of their highest levels of the year.
According to d'Assignies, who serves as impact director and founder of the French automotive club Roole, diesel prices have risen by 30 cents per litre over the past month alone. Unleaded petrol has also climbed back above average rates of two euros per litre across France, with even higher rates recorded in specific regions.
The highest prices are consistently found at motorway service stations. d'Assignies explained that fuel pricing along highways is not subject to state regulation. Motorway stations also benefit from limited competition and face more complex supply logistics, which increases operational costs for fuel retailers.
Refuelling off motorways cuts travel expenses
To reduce overall travel expenses, d'Assignies advised drivers to leave the motorway to refuel at off-highway stations, provided the extra distance remains small.
She stated that making a detour of no more than 15 kilometres can yield significant savings, allowing motorists to save up to 20 euros when filling a full tank.
Drivers looking for lower prices can also rely on specialized mobile applications and digital comparison tools. d'Assignies highlighted several platform choices, including Roole Map, Essence & Co, and Essence / Gasoil Now, as well as the French government's official price tracking website at prix-carburants.gouv.fr.
Long term savings through electric vehicles
Looking ahead to future holiday travel, d'Assignies suggested that motorists planning to purchase a new car evaluate switching to an electric vehicle.
Although electric cars require a higher initial purchase price than internal combustion engine vehicles, she noted that they offer superior cost efficiency over the long term.
d'Assignies concluded that driving 100 kilometres in an electric car costs approximately three euros, compared to twelve euros for the same distance in a petrol or diesel vehicle.
