Dortmund – As fuel prices continue to rise, a recent study by BBE Automotive, a consulting firm based in Cologne, suggests that 2.6 million German drivers could save money by filling up in neighboring countries. However, the findings, initially reported by t-online, should be viewed with caution as the study dates back to 2022.
Millions Could Benefit, But Data is Dated
The study’s estimate of 2.6 million potential cross-border fuel shoppers is from four years ago. It remains unclear whether that number still accurately reflects current conditions, as some drivers may have switched to electric vehicles or reduced their overall vehicle usage. RUHR24 has requested updated information from BBE Automotive, and will include their response when This proves received.
Current Fuel Prices Across Europe
As of March 5, 2026, at 12:00 PM CET, average fuel prices in Germany are: Diesel – 2.09 Euro, Super E10 – 1.98 Euro, and Super – 1.95 Euro. Here’s a comparison with prices in neighboring countries, based on information from the ADAC and the EU Commission (as of March 3, 2026):
- Netherlands – 2.07 Euro / 1.89 Euro
- Belgium – 1.54 Euro / 1.68 Euro
- Luxemburg – 1.48 Euro / 1.49 Euro
- France – 1.76 Euro / 1.70 Euro
- Switzerland – 1.90 Euro / 2.08 Euro
- Austria – 1.52 Euro / 1.56 Euro
- Czech Republic – 1.39 Euro / 1.38 Euro
- Poland – 1.37 Euro / 1.43 Euro
- Denmark – 1.95 Euro / 1.79 Euro
Why Germany’s Fuel Prices Are High
According to ADAC spokesperson Thomas Müther, fuel prices in Germany tend to be higher than in other European countries due to differing tax and levy models. Whereas other nations like the Netherlands, France, and Austria experience similar price fluctuations, Luxembourg operates under a state price regulation system.
Is “Fuel Tourism” Worth It?
While 2.6 million drivers may have potentially benefited from cross-border fuel purchases in 2022, the financial advantage isn’t always clear-cut. TÜV Süd calculates that even with a 20-cent-per-liter price difference, a 30-kilometer detour can negate savings due to increased fuel consumption.
Frequently Asked Questions
What study suggests Germans could save on fuel?
A study by BBE Automotive, a consulting firm from Cologne, suggests that 2.6 million drivers could save money by purchasing fuel in neighboring countries.
How old is the data from this study?
The study was conducted in 2022, meaning the data is four years old as of March 9, 2026.
What factors influence fuel prices in Germany?
According to the ADAC, higher taxes and levies on fuel in Germany contribute to its relatively high prices compared to other European nations.
Considering these factors, will the potential savings from driving across borders outweigh the costs for individual drivers?
