The "Drive $marter Challenge" campaign, launched on May 20, reinforces the activities of the Car Care Council by educating and challenging Americans to increase the efficiency of their cars.

The alliance is a nonprofit coalition of business, government, environmental, and consumer leaders who promote the efficient and clean use of energy worldwide to benefit the environment, the economy, and national security.

"While consumers can do nothing to control rising gas prices, they can take control of how much gas they use; and one of the best and most cost-effective ways is through regular vehicle maintenance that results in more miles to the gallon," said Rich White, Car Care Council executive director. 

"We need to drive home this message as often and from every direction as possible.  Our partnership with the Alliance to Save Energy and its new 'Drive $marter Challenge' will significantly multiply message delivery for both organizations."

"We enthusiastically welcome the Car Care Council as a partner in the timely Drive $marter Challenge campaign, whose messages and goals mesh so well with those of the council's ongoing 'Be Car Care Aware' campaign," Alliance President Kateri Callahan said.

"We are confident that both campaigns will be furthered by our partnership," Callahan said.  "And as we enter the summer driving season at this time of spiraling gas prices, it's essential to convey to drivers that simple yet effective car maintenance measures, combined with fuel-efficient driving habits such as sticking to the speed limit, will mean fewer costly trips to the pump."