BOSTON -- Hybrid cars may not be as fuel-efficient as previously thought, according to new government fuel-economy ratings.

Beginning in 2008, the Environmental Protection Administration will be considering several additional factors in determining fuel efficiency for automobiles.

"I feel we got ripped off. I bought the truck and they said I would get 33 mpg -- I'm only getting 22.6," said Ray Terilli, who drives a hybrid.

"The engineering that created those statistics is joke. It is way outdated," said motorist Joe Cohen.

Current mileage estimates are based on standards created in the 1970s. The EPA will consider the fact that motorists drive faster than 60 mph, accelerate faster and live in areas that are now hotter and colder than they were in the 1970s.

"They've also increased the speed limits that they drive these vehicles in the course of the test to as much as 80 mph -- which, if anyone drives on 128, is nothing," said Rebecca Lundland of Global Insight.

Under the new EPA guidelines, the top-selling gasoline-electric Toyota Prius, advertised to get 60 mpg, will be rated to get 48 mpg.

"No one is walking through my doors and is saying, 'Oh God. My car is only getting me 48 mpg and it is rated at 60,'" said Cliff Cook of Clair Toyota.

The mileage rating for Ford's hybrid sport utility vehicle, the Escape, will be down 12 percent from 34 mpg to 30 mpg.

Compare Old and New MPG Ratings