The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word DECLUTCH
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
D
E
C
L
U
T
C
H
More clues leading to the result DECLUTCH
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "prepare to step on the gas?" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case prepare to step on the gas? = declutch.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does DECLUTCH mean?
DECLUTCH verb- To disengage the clutch on a vehicle or other engine with PTO