The rate of inflation – as measured by the Consumer Price Index – for December 2014 fell to 0.5% equalling the record low seen in May 2000.
Much of the fall has been driven by the plunging price of oil and the subsequent drop in prices at the petrol pumps.
Commenting on the figures, Professor Stephen Glaister, director of the RAC Foundation, said:
“The decline in fuel prices has played a big part in reducing inflation. Six months ago it was costing around about £65 to fill up an average family car with petrol. Today it is about £55.
“Given that fuel is such a large part of motoring expenditure and transport is in the top three areas of all household spending, the savings being made at the pumps are real and meaningful.
“And it’s not just car owners who are benefitting, lower fuel prices also mean hauliers and industry can keep a lid on their costs.”
In calculations for the Telegraph the RAC Foundation has calculated that, in very broad terms, drivers spent about £330m less on fuel in December than they did in July. This is the equivalent of some £11.70 per car/driver per month.
On 19 June 2014 the price of Brent crude oil peaked at a high for the year of $115.35 per barrel. On 12 January 2015 it was down almost 60% to $46.85.
In July 2014 unleaded petrol was selling at an average of about 131p a litre and diesel 136p. On 15 January 2015 petrol was 109p and diesel 116p
More information on fuel and oil prices is available in our data section: www.racfoundation.org/data
ENDS
Contact:
Philip Gomm – Head of External Communications – RAC Foundation
[email protected] | 020 7747 3445 | 07711 776448 | 020 7389 0601 (ISDN)
Notes to editors:
The RAC Foundation is a transport policy and research organisation that explores the economic, mobility, safety and environmental issues relating to roads and their users. The Foundation publishes independent and authoritative research with which it promotes informed debate and advocates policy in the interest of the responsible motorist.
The RAC Foundation is a registered charity, number 1002705.