With rising gas prices worldwide impacting the lives of Canadians, a new survey by Maru Public Opinion found that 48 percent of respondents are considering buying a fully electric or hybrid vehicle in their next purchase.

The results were based on a survey that included 1,555 respondents.

The survey also reveals that the majority (56 percent) believe that high gas prices are here to stay - and may even rise.

John Wright, Executive Vice President of Maru Public Opinion, said, "Canadians believe the two main reasons for the recent increases in fuel prices are global supply shortages due to international events (27 percent) and oil/gas companies raising pump costs to earn higher profits (24 percent)."

Prices currently stand at 184.9 cents per liter at most GTA stations, with another increase expected on Wednesday. Gasoline costs have already surpassed $2 per liter in British Columbia as Canadians continue to see staggering numbers at gas stations.

Alberta Premier Jason Kenney announced on Monday that his government will suspend fuel tax collection in his province, which amounts to 13 cents per liter. It is unclear whether Ontario Premier Doug Ford will follow suit.

Meanwhile, Roger McKnight, Chief Petroleum Analyst at En-Pro International Inc., said fuel prices in Southern Ontario could reach $2.20 per liter by next month.

Demographically, the survey identified that electric and hybrid cars are more attractive to young Canadians.

Adult drivers (aged 18 to 34, 31 percent), followed by middle-aged (35-54, 12 percent), and those aged 55 and above.

In the same context, the Russian invasion of Ukraine has pushed oil prices to levels not seen in at least eight years, as crude oil transport companies avoid dealing with Russian firms, and some banks are excluded from the global payment system sanctions, severely disrupting exports.

The energy giant Shell defended its purchase of Russian crude oil despite the invasion on Sunday.

Russia is one of the world's largest energy producers.

Edited by: Dima Abu Khair