Fuel Prices Soar at Season Start: What Motorcyclists Need to Know

• Super E10 costs an average of 2.078 euros per liter nationwide, diesel is at 2.283 euros
• The Iran war and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz are driving oil prices to nearly 117 US dollars per barrel
• Starting April 1, 2026, gas stations may only raise prices once per day

Just as temperatures rise and motorcycles roll out of garages, fuel prices in Germany are reaching new all-time highs. According to the latest ADAC price survey from March 29, 2026, a liter of Super E10 costs 2.078 euros. Diesel is even more expensive at 2.283 euros per liter. For motorcyclists, with an average tank capacity of 15 to 20 liters, this means noticeably higher costs.

Why Prices Are Rising So Sharply

The main reason is the war in the Middle East. Since the escalation of the Iran conflict began, Iran has been blocking the Strait of Hormuz. Around 20 percent of the world’s oil supply normally passes through this waterway. As recently as February 27, 2026, a barrel of Brent crude cost around 72 US dollars; by the night of March 30, it had climbed to nearly 117 US dollars.

CO2 Levy Drives Prices Even Higher

A new stage of CO2 pricing has been in effect since January 1, 2026. The corridor is set at 55 to 65 euros per ton. In concrete terms, the CO2 levy in 2026 adds approximately 17 cents per liter of gasoline and about 19 cents per liter of diesel. Combined with energy tax and VAT, taxes and levies currently account for around 58 percent of the gasoline price.

Fuel Prices in Germany Rising Faster Than the EU Average

An analysis by the DIW shows that fuel prices in Germany have risen twice as fast as the EU average in the wake of the Iran conflict. The Federal Cartel Office has opened proceedings to investigate potential competition distortions in the wholesale fuel market.

New Fuel Price Rule from April 1: The Austria Model Arrives

Gas stations will only be allowed to raise their prices once per day going forward, specifically at 12:00 noon. Price reductions remain possible at any time. The model is based on Austria, where a similar system has been in place since 2011. Violations can result in fines of up to 100,000 euros.

How to Save Money When Filling Up

Starting April 1, the rule is: fill up shortly before noon whenever possible. Fuel price apps like ADAC Drive help find the cheapest pump. Anyone whose motorcycle can run on Super E10 should skip the more expensive E5.

What May Lie Ahead

Should the situation stabilize, a decline in fuel prices toward 1.80 to 2.00 euros per liter is conceivable. The 2026 season is starting under significantly tougher financial conditions than in previous years.

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