Gas prices got you wanting an electric or hybrid car? Well, good luck finding one

Gas prices have hit a record high, not adjusted for inflation, which has sparked increased demand for electric cars, hybrids and smaller gasoline-powered vehicles. But shoppers may not find much to choose from.

Joe Raedle / Joe Raedle

With gasoline prices topping $4 a gallon, many drivers are looking for a car that will go farther on a gallon of gas, or maybe one that doesn’t use gasoline at all.

Finding such a car, though, is not easy.

Electric cars and gas-electric hybrids are in short supply, and prices have been climbing rapidly. Smaller gasoline-powered cars are also scarce, as automakers have focused on building more lucrative pickup trucks and SUVs.