Hybrid Car Sales Are Booming

Even with only three models on the market, the interest and sales of hybrid (fuel and electric) automobiles is booming, growing 25.8 percent last year. Gas prices are just the latest reason drivers are looking at alternative engines. ``Last year was a turning point in consumers' minds,'' said Sara Pines, an American Honda spokeswoman. ``They started thinking of the hybrids from Honda and Toyota as a real alternative.'' A dozen more models, including hybrid SUVs will hit the market soon.