Slideshow: Future Hybrids

THERE'S NOTHING LIKE wallet-draining gas prices to convince drivers that it's time to start considering a more fuel-efficient car.

Indeed, sales for gas-sipping hybrid vehicles are at an all-time high. J.D. Power & Associates says annual green car sales jumped 38% in 2007 and are expected to increase another 14% this year. And according to a recent survey by the automotive web site Cars.com, 59% of car shoppers have already bought or would consider purchasing a hybrid. As gas prices continue to creep above $4 a gallon, more consumers are abandoning their gas-guzzling SUVs in favor of more fuel-efficient models. In fact, hybrids are flying out of dealers' lots so fast that auto makers are struggling to keep up with demand.

The good news: A handful of new and exciting green vehicles are slated to be released over the next couple of years. Not only should that help boost the supply of environmentally-friendly vehicles, but it should also give drivers more styles to choose from. Best of all, improved technology will make this next generation of vehicles even more fuel efficient than their predecessors. One caveat, though: Even with a greater variety and number of models, dealers may still fall short on supply so expect to pay a premium over the sticker price.

View our slideshow for a peek at the next generation of hybrid vehicles: