AVON, Ind. -- A recent spike in gas prices is fueling sales of more efficient hybrid vehicles, Indianapolis television station WRTV reported.

Drivers of gas-guzzling trucks and SUVs are particularly feeling the pinch of rising prices.

"It's ridiculous. It makes it hard on people that are using their vehicles for a living," said driver William Fisher.

Events coordinator Dale Brewer drives a Chevrolet Suburban for his job. Brewer is paying nearly $100 to fill up his tank.

"I'm not happy about it, but I guess I have no choice," Brewer said. "In the business that I'm in, I need a larger vehicle."

Car dealers said hybrids, such the Toyota Highlander SUV and the smaller Toyota Prius, offer an alternative that might cost more up-front, but will pay off in the long run.

"They leave the lot pretty quick. They're pretty much in and out in about a three- or four-day period," said dealer Andy Mohr.

Mohr said a vehicle running on standard gas might sit on the lot for as many as 45 days before its sold.

Toyota officials said the demand for the Prius is higher than it was at this time last year, so production has been increased.

Many dealerships still have a waiting list for hybrid vehicles, but Mohr said he gets more of them than most dealers. Hybrid vehicles use a combination of gas and battery power, which improves fuel economy.

"If you're at a light, it will basically ... shut off the engine and you'll be running on your battery power and it will basically turn on when you're ready to accelerate," Mohr said.

Hybrid vehicles generally cost about $2,500 more than traditional vehicles. In the recent past, buyers paid a premium over the sticker price to get the vehicles, but that generally isn't happening now.

Ford is offering incentives, such as interest-free financing, for its Escape hybrid.