Electric and hybrid drivers are escaping the painfully high gas prices

Record high gas prices have been hitting countless drivers in their wallets, but electric and hybrid car owners have mostly been collecting on their investment.

Several electric vehicle (EV) owners told News Channel 3's Marian Bouchot that they are relieved to not be affected by the surging gas prices. Some said they've saved thousands of dollars a year on gas and are thankful to have made the change.

Some dealerships that sell EVs or hybrids (HEV) have seen a higher demand from people eager to avoid the pump. News Channel 3's sister station ACB7 in Los Angeles said a Hyundai dealership in Riverside is experiencing high sales of its zero-emission vehicles.

Electric car owner Steve Arnott has only owned his car for three months but he already praises its benefits.

“Certainly having you know, access to this makes things a lot easier on a budget," said Arnott. “It gives you peace of mind that you're not, you know, with everything else being inflated, not having to worry about the gas prices.”

He has yet to crunch the exact numbers on his savings but knows he’s coming out much more ahead than before.

The California Energy Commission reports there are currently about 25,000 zero-emission vehicles on the road in Riverside County.

Electric car owner Phillip Kobz said he’s saving nearly $200 a month on gas.

“Money I save every month. Money we can go travel and do many things without paying gas," said Kobz. “It's sad that gas is going up, but it's wonderful to have an electric car. I think down the road, everybody's gonna have an electric car. It's a thing of the future.”

According to AutoPacific, an automotive research firm, more than 80% of those planning to buy an electric vehicle say they would because charging is cheaper than fueling.