Rising gas prices have many Americans scrambling to save money at the pump, whether by purchasing more fuel-efficient vehicles, changing their driving habits or cutting back on other expenses. President Obama sat down with a AAA representative to discuss the issue after his speech on energy last week. They touched on the frustration many American drivers are going through trying to adjust to the higher prices while still balancing their household budgets.

The president said the government needs to put its efforts into developing better solutions for the future as well as putting emphasis on finding applicable strategies for people to use now. Obama lauded the use of alternative energy, such as hybrid, natural gas and electric vehicles (EVs), but also expressed his understanding that many are apprehensive about electric vehicles. Lots of drivers have "range anxiety" that they could wind up stranded with a dead battery in the middle of nowhere should they opt for an EV.

"People need to feel confident that when they get into an electric car they're not going to get stuck," Obama said. "To the extent that we start having both more efficient batteries and distribution capacity, people can feel confident that they're never going to get stuck, or at least not any more stuck than they do when they forget to fill up and then call AAA."

Americans are gradually growing more accepting of EVs and other alternatives to gas-powered cars, and automakers are introducing more hybrid and EV options all the time. In fact, Honda recently announced the production of a new plug-in Hybrid Accord.

Drivers looking for a new hybrid, EV or a fuel-efficient model should head to New Jersey State Auto Auction. The dealer carries a wide variety of makes and models at affordable prices, and thanks to a partnership with the Credit Acceptance Corp, they offer guaranteed credit approval.