Diesel and Gasoline Prices Spike: ÖAMTC and ARBÖ Call for Relief
Fuel prices in Austria have risen sharply, with diesel averaging €1.829 per liter and gasoline €1.689, prompting calls from automobile clubs for urgent government action. Many motorists consider the prices excessive, especially compared with lower costs in neighboring countries.
Economy Minister وولفغانغ هاتمانسدورفر has launched an investigation into the recent increases, with preliminary results expected by the end of March. Past reports, including one by the Federal Competition Authority (BWB), found that while international crude prices largely drive pump costs, refineries and petrol stations have seen sharply higher profit margins.
Automobile clubs argue that political measures could quickly reduce prices. ÖAMTC recommends lowering mineral oil tax or CO2 pricing, noting that about half of the fuel price flows directly into the budget. ARBÖ urges an immediate suspension of CO2 pricing and a reduction of VAT on fuel to 10 percent, which could bring prices down toward €1.50 per liter.
Driving style also affects fuel consumption. The VCÖ highlights that fuel-efficient driving can cut consumption by 15–23 percent, for example by reducing motorway speeds from 130 km/h to 100–110 km/h. Clubs also stress that Austria lags behind other European countries in adopting electric vehicles, which could reduce long-term dependence on fossil fuels.
The Austrian Trade Union Federation (ÖGB) supports the minister’s review and calls for examining margin regulations under the Price Act. Energy spokesperson for the Green Party, لوكاس هامر, emphasized the need for structural changes, advocating an accelerated energy transition and expanded domestic clean energy production to reduce vulnerability to global crises.