Book Review – “Gas Smarts: Hundreds of Small Ways to Save Big Time at the Pump”

The book “Gas Smarts: Hundreds of Small Ways to Save Big Time at the Pump” is an informative description of how to save money on your gas bill – specifically how to drive to save money. It is strange that a PhD in marketing and business wrote a book on gas savings.  Even more curious is the depth of detail he, a marketing guy, includes about car engines and the inner workings of a car.

This easy to read book concentrates on car care maintenance tips and defensive driving techniques.  In the first chapter on driving efficiently, about 75% the content sounds like the tips given on the nightly news for saving gas.  If you drive defensively (ie. smoothly, non-distracted) and anticipate problems, the engine will not have to react quickly (ie less efficiently) or use an excessive amount of gas.  Some of the common sense items include beware of pot holes, and reduce air conditioning use (not good if you live in the south).  If you have been through a defensive driving course, most of these items have already been discussed.  The result of being a better driver is fewer drastic changes requiring spikes in gas usage. In addition, if you keep up the car and perform the standard manufacturers recommended maintenance, you have a better chance of getting the maximum fuel mileage.

The remaining chapters contain rather basic information on efficient planning of using a car, buying a new or used car and some general information on after market products.  Few facts and figures are provided.  The appendices are more commentary, some political in nature.

“Gas Smarts: Hundreds of Small Ways to Save Big Time at the Pump” provides a comprehensive summary of all the possible defensive driving techniques and a short summary of what affects car performance. The book is an easy read.