Cars

Plug-in hybrids, better known as PHEVs, should be the ideal compromise between an electric and a conventional car – something like the automotive version of "having my cake and eating it too". But unfortunately, many owners use them more like a petrol vehicle with a bonus battery, which they charge less often than their smartphone from 2012. And because this results in significantly higher emissions than promised, Germany is considering putting an end to this half-and-half use. The solution? A car that loses power if you don't charge it regularly. Yep, you read that right.