Fuel Cost Calculator

How to use the fuel cost calculator

1. Fill in the fields — they start with a worked example.
2. Read the answer, and the arithmetic shown beneath it.
3. Copy the results, or adjust the inputs to compare scenarios.

About this tool

The calculation is distance ÷ economy × price. What makes it useful is the per-person figure: a journey that looks expensive alone is often cheaper than the train once it is shared between three or four people.

This covers fuel only. The full cost of driving includes tyres, servicing, depreciation and tolls — official mileage rates are roughly double the fuel cost for that reason, so use those if you are claiming rather than just budgeting.

Common uses

• Budgeting for a long drive.
• Splitting fuel costs fairly between passengers.
• Comparing driving against a train fare.

Frequently asked questions

Should I use my car's displayed economy figure?

It is a reasonable starting point, though trip computers tend to be optimistic by a few percent. Official combined figures are usually optimistic too.

Does this include the full cost of driving?

No, fuel only. Tyres, servicing and depreciation roughly double the real per-mile cost, which is why reimbursement rates are higher.