Saving Smart at the Pump: ADAC's Guidance on Fuel Price Fluctuations
Reduce fuel costs: ADAC unveils the most cost-efficient times to refuel - Price discrepancies unveiled:ADAC discloses optimal time for refueling
Want to save a few cents at the pump? Then listen up! According to ADAC's analysis in May, the difference between the cheapest and most expensive times to fuel up can be quite significant, with Super E10 fluctuating by nearly 13 cents per liter and diesel by as much as 14 cents. That's quite a difference, especially if you're filling up a tank!
Last year, the price gaps were much smaller, around just six to seven cents. So, what gives? Well, the answer is simple: timing!
Time is Money: Fuel Up in the Evening
So, when's the best time to hit the station and save some cash? According to Christian Laberer, ADAC's fuel market expert, it's all about timing. Fuel prices start to creep up around 6.00 AM, hitting their daily peak just after 7.00 AM, right during rush hour. Ouch! At this time, you're looking at diesel costing about 9 cents more than the daily average, and Super E10 costing 8 cents more.
But don't fret! By 9.00 AM, prices have already dropped sharply, settling just 2 cents above the daily average. Then, they rise slightly, fluctuate a bit, and reach their evening low around 6.00 PM, 8.00 PM, and 10.00 PM. Surprisingly, the lowest point just before 8.00 PM is slightly more advantageous than the others. After 10.00 PM, prices creep back up, remaining relatively stable overnight before another steep increase tomorrow morning.
Riding the Fuel Price Waves
So, what does this mean for you? Well, it's simple! Opt for an evening fill-up instead of a morning one to save more than you would have a year ago. Plus, you'll be able to cruise through those decision points with an ease of mind, knowing you've scored the best deal!
Remember, though, the exact price low may not always fall at an evening hour. There are typically eight price peaks throughout the day, a record level according to last year. Individual stations may have more, but the average value used in ADAC's analysis should still put a bit of money back in your pocket!
One last thought: the Federal Cartel Office has reported an average of 22 price changes per station, with some stations experiencing even more! So, while it's impossible to guarantee catching the absolute lowest price, opting for the evening hours still gives you a good shot at savings.
Stay smart, fuel up savvy, and happy savings!
- Fuel Type
- Best Time to Fill Up
- ADAC's advice
The Commission has also been consulted on the issues of industry, finance, and energy regarding fuel price fluctuations, particularly in relation to the timing of filling up at gas stations.
Considering ADAC's advice on fuel savings, it is recommended to fill up in the evening instead of the morning to potentially save more than last year, taking advantage of the evening lows in fuel prices.
