While I understand Bob Kruse’ argument that unused battery is a waste, so is an unused engine generator — and the enginer will also introduce extra maintenence and occasional gasoline consumption. I think you can argue either side of whether a bigger battery is a bigger waste than a backup engine.

My hope is that EVs with bigger-than-you-normally-use batteries and EREVs with on board engine generators should both be interim solutions to take us to a point in time when there will be either fast charging batteries/capacitors or battery swapping facilities or infrastructure for on-road charging or some other more convenient way to get a full charge quickly, affordably, and conveniently.

Phase I: Pure ICE
Phase II: Hybrids (minor improvement in MPG with addition of electric cruise motor)
Phase III: Electric vehicle with auxiliary generator
Phase IV: Electric Vehicle with high range and quick recharge

***
Frankly, GM is right in focusing on Phase III. Those automakers that try to make a pure EV will discover the same problems GM did with the EV1. Limited range, long charge times, will equate to a niche market vehicle. Furthermore, in order to achieve a greater range, many said vehicles will be two seaters. Even Honda’s 1st generation Insight failed because it was merely a two-seater.

Eventually, we will transition to Phase IV vehicles. But, that will be a gradual process over a handful of decades. (20-60 yrs). It will be dependent on two things. Advancements in batteries to allow for a few hundred mile range and the addition of rapid charging technology & infrastructure (no more than 5 minutes for a full charge, preferably faster). When these two goals are achieved, then the auxiliary generator will be dropped.

Until that point arrives, any attempt at Phase IV will be IMHO a niche market. Somewhere in the same category as SmartCars.