How the cost of fuel affects vehicle hire pricing in 2026
Petrol price rises are nothing new, with years of fluctuations and news headlines addressing the topic. Whether you’ve hired a car from us or not, it’s probably something you’re going to be keeping an eye on as a driver. That's why we do everything we can to make it easy for you here at Intack Self Drive. We know first-hand that vehicle hire is a cost-effective way to stay on the road without the stress and financial pressures of ownership. Our hire rates cover everything from service costs to breakdown cover – the only extra you’ll have to pay for is fuel. Perfect! But with the freeze on fuel duty rates set to expire in March 2026, it’s looking like paying more at the pump is an inevitability of the year ahead. What will this mean for vehicle hire pricing? Let’s take a closer look.
Hire companies may be encouraged to invest in more fuel-efficient additions
Rising fuel costs may be the push that some hire companies need to add more fuel-efficient vehicles to their fleets. On the one hand, this means lower running costs, a better selection for customers and the obvious environmental benefits. On the other hand, electric and hybrid vehicles are typically more expensive to purchase, which means that hire companies will need to invest more money upfront. There are fears that this could lead to hire prices being upped to cover the costs. Electric and hybrid cars also tend to cost more to insure, another element that might bump up the hire price.
“Fill to fill” policies
Like many hire companies, here at Intack Self Drive, your chosen vehicle will be full of fuel when you get it, and we expect it to be returned with a full tank, too. The major benefit of this policy means that you have the convenience of driving away without instantly needing to head to the petrol station; crucially, it also means that you pay only for the fuel you use, making it fair and often more cost-effective. Refilling the car yourself is cheaper than having us refill it, as our prices are higher than those at a petrol station. However, with fuel costs looking to increase in 2026, an unfortunate fact is that customers on a full-to-full policy will be paying more to fill the vehicle at the end of the hire period.
Can I do anything to be more fuel-efficient when driving a hire car?
Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer journey, we know how much convenience and freedom car hire can bring. Here at Intack Self Drive, our usual fantastic prices will always be a cornerstone of our company – but is there anything you can do to combat rising fuel costs? Let’s consider some ways you can stay fuel-efficient in 2026 and beyond!
Proper vehicle maintenance
Any driver knows how much maintenance matters – but did you know that it can even impact how much fuel you need? Simple maintenance can save you a sizable amount of money when driving. Fortunately for you, here at Intack Self Drive, all of our vehicles are thoroughly and expertly maintained to keep them reliable and running smoothly at all times. We do ask customers to routinely check things like tyre pressure to maintain their lifespan and keep the car as safe on the day you return it as the day you pick it up. This will also help to make sure the vehicle remains fuel-efficient, so you can enjoy your journey with fewer stops and a bit more money in your pocket!
Driving habits
Your driving habits can also have an impact on the amount of fuel you use. Always accelerate gently and avoid sudden braking – when you do have to reduce speed, stay in gear to trigger the fuel-cut off switch and cut fuel use as you brake. Another key way you can make the most of your fuel is by moving up to the highest gear as soon as possible. Experts say that travelling 60mph in third gear uses up to 25% more fuel than driving at the same speed in fifth gear, a notable increase. Controlling your speed can also play a part. According to the RAC, keeping between 45 and 50mph is best for maintaining fuel efficiency.
You can also make the most of your fuel by reducing the weight of your vehicle. A heavy vehicle will understandably require more energy to accelerate and thus use up fuel more quickly. For example, if you’re using one of our vans or minibuses for a family getaway and you’re bringing everything but the kitchen sink with you, take the time to unpack the vehicle when you reach your destination. By driving around without a full load, you can keep fuel costs down and make the most of your time with fewer trips to the petrol station.
Choose one of our fuel-efficient vehicles
A major way you can keep prices down when running a hire vehicle, even in the face of rising fuel prices, is by choosing the right model. Our small cars, for example, offer excellent fuel economy. We also offer electric vehicles. If you need a van for an extensive job, for example, but are worried about the cost of fuel, we’ve got you covered. Our e-Transit provides an eco-friendly, convenient ride with lower running costs and no penalty if it isn’t returned fully charged – that’s the beauty of our free fuel offer!
Any other questions?
We understand that the prospect of rising costs may be concerning for many customers, but there’s no need to worry when you choose Intack Self Drive. For the last 50 years, we’ve been committed to keeping vehicle hire affordable, and that’s not going to change. Whether you choose our daily hire or flexi hire options, we’re all about making sure you get the most for your money, and we’re never beaten on price. With vehicles starting at just £22.13 per day, we can guarantee affordability without ever sacrificing quality. If you have any questions, give us a call on 01254 57811 today – our team is always happy to help!