There are gliders and TMG's in europe. TMG (Touring Motor Glider) is kind on in between a real aeroplane and a glider with the worst of both worlds combined (half sarcastic). Gliders then are gliders, either pure gliders with no propulsion other than gravity. Some are equipped with sustainer engines (piston, electrical, jet) and are not capable of independent take-off. Sustainer is supposed to bring You home instead of landing out. Then there are self-launching gliders with usually retractable propulsion system, again piston or electric. Some TMG's are capable of real soaring flight, most are not even though manufacturers boast otherwise, the glider performance is just horrible, so they are really only underpowered airplanes. Whit not enough training. Dimona and Stemme being most capable TMG,s. Gliders with retractable powertrain are usually really good gliders also.
-M-