Plug-in hybrids hit by tougher emissions rules, end of subsidies

The future of plug-in hybrids in Europe is in doubt after the double blow of a harsh emissions reclassification and the removal of purchase subsidies in the UK, the region’s biggest market for such cars. Plug-in hybrids have always been a gamble for automakers because of the cost of fitting into a vehicle both a conventional engine and a battery pack big enough to provide satisfactory electric-only mileage.