content: Wouldn't charging a battery with a diesel generator be far more efficient than running a diesel engine? I don't disagree battery tech will need to advance a lot further for range, faster recharge/better swap, and better with cold weather. But replacing engines with highly efficient generators is a solid option. I have a Leaf and probably the best car I've owned, live in rural farm country, handles better in the snow than any car I've had, and rarely have range issues. But still has plenty of limitations that the average household would struggle with. The Chevy Volt is an interesting direction though, adding the gasoline generator instead of a weak engine and battery hybrid.