Irish motorists are heading into winter with heavier costs on both sides of the motoring divide traditional fuel and electric charging according to AA Ireland’s latest monthly price survey.
November has brought another round of increases at the pump, while many EV owners are also feeling the pinch as home-energy tariffs and PAYG fast-charging rates nudge upwards.
The timing couldn’t be worse. With household expenses typically spiking in the colder months, even modest increases in running costs are starting to make a noticeable dent in family budgets.
Petrol and Diesel Prices Rise Again
The AA Ireland data shows a clear upward trend:
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Unleaded petrol: now €1.74 per litre (up from €1.72 in October)
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Diesel: up to €1.72 per litre (from €1.68 last month)
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Carbon tax: holding steady at €71 per tonne of CO₂, unchanged since October 2025
They may seem like incremental jumps, but as the AA notes, small rises add up quickly for the thousands who rely on their cars every day especially those covering longer commutes or juggling multiple school runs.
EV Costs Are Creeping Up Too, Especially at Night
Electric vehicle drivers aren’t fully insulated from rising motoring costs either.
While daytime and PAYG EV charging costs remain stable following October’s increases, night-rate and 24-hour home tariffs are edging upward the very plans most EV owners rely on for affordable charging.
That could leave some drivers with unexpectedly higher running costs, depending on their provider.
The message is clear: charging smart matters as much as driving smart.
Practical Tips to Keep Costs Down
With both fuel and electricity prices drifting in the wrong direction, AA Ireland is urging motorists to be proactive. A few simple habits can make a meaningful difference this winter:
For Petrol & Diesel Drivers
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Keep tyres inflated and stay on top of routine servicing
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Avoid high-cost stations especially those near airports or motorways
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Book a regular service to improve efficiency and reduce winter breakdown risks
For EV Owners
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Check your tariff — confirm whether you’re on a night-rate, EV-specific, or off-peak plan
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Shift charging to off-peak hours whenever possible
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Monitor your energy use on motorways, where EVs can quietly consume the most power
These small adjustments can soften the blow of rising energy costs and help motorists make their money go further.
A Tough Winter Ahead for Motorists
November’s fuel-price climb is a real, daily pressure for drivers across Ireland. For commuters, tradespeople, rural families, and anyone who depends on their car, the increases are arriving at exactly the moment when household budgets tighten.
Whether filling up or charging up, the message from AA Ireland is the same: be mindful, be efficient, and shop around. Because as prices continue to creep upward, staying informed is the most powerful tool motorists have.
