Chances are you know that hybrid cars are hot, and the need is growing as gas prices keep climbing.

Drivers want relief from the pump. "I'm only getting like 22 miles to the gallon, I need something that's gettin' like 42 miles to the gallon."

The government says HEV's or hybrids like the Toyota Prius get nearly 50 miles a gallon. and the Ford Escape Hybrid SUV over 15 mpg higher than the standard version.

"Dealers cannot get 'em anywhere near the numbers for demand."

WDBO consumer expert Clark Howard says that's putting the Prius in the top ten of best selling models.

Ford Zone Sales Manager Chris Baron tells me only one Escape Hybrid is in dealer stock and he has a seven month waiting list.

"Where the hybrid really excells is in stop and go traffic like on I-4"

Honda, GM, Nissan and others have joined the hybrid fray.

But will you save money?

Experts say it largely depends on the driving you do.

People buy hybrid's for lots of reasons not just to save a ton of cash.

Edmunds, the noted car reviewer, has crunched the numbers and if you compare a standard engine with the electric-gas version it doesn't make sense. That's mainly because of the much higher sticker price of a hybrid.

Frank Raymond is Seminole County's facilities manager. He's got Ford and Toyota hybrids and doesn't see any cost savings.

"With air conditioning the hybrid often doesn't do it. It actually has the gas motor running.,"

wdbo consumer expert Clark Howard says payback is slow.

"You're going to have to drive that car seven years to hit the point before you're ahead of the game."

In fact, Edmonds says it takes over 13 years for a Prius to catch up with a Corolla.

And in Seminole County's experience, Raymond says hybrids can move people perfectly well, but can't carry heavy loads or tow much of a load.

"I can't say that I can get the most for the taxpayers I represent by buying hybrids"

But don't slam the door just yet.

There are tax credits from the Federal government, and drivers just may want to stop dependence on foreign oil

"It's ridiculous. Something that used to be $2.15 cents is now $3.15.

Edmunds Study: Do Hybrids Make Financial Sense Yet?