What Should Automakers Do If Plug-In Hybrid Owners Never Plug In?

07 May 2026 | Abstracted from BMW Blog

BMW's supervisory board chairman says automakers could penalize PHEV owners who never plug in by remotely cutting engine power. He argues unused batteries make PHEVs heavier and dirtier than regular cars, and that monitoring charge behavior is technically feasible. The proposal aims to push drivers to actually charge their vehicles and preserve PHEVs' climate benefits.

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