Near real-time petrol and diesel prices are being included on Google Maps for the first time today (Thursday 8 October). 
 
Now, when searching for a forecourt nearby on Google Maps, near real time prices for petrol and diesel will be displayed on the app, allowing drivers to access the cheapest fuel in their local area. 

Minister for Energy Consumers Polly Billington said: "Accessing the cheapest fuel should be simple, which is why it is a gamechanger for near real-time fuel prices to be shown on Google Maps for the first time in the UK, helping drivers to find the best deal and save money at the pump."

Chancellor of the Exchequer, John Healey said: "Getting the best price at the pump is now easier. This doesn’t fix everything; bills have gone up because of events in the Middle East.   

"But we’re not powerless. And small changes like this, cutting tax on electricity bills and capping bus fares at £2 all help give families a bit of breathing space."

The Fuel Finder scheme was created to help drivers get more competitive fuel prices following a recommendation by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). 

Since February, it has been compulsory for petrol stations across the UK to report the price of their fuel within 30 minutes of it changing or risk a fine – and the CMA can take action where there is evidence that petrol stations are not complying with the law.