Micro, I haven't read the entire discussion with Zimbler, so perhaps I am bringing up something you already know, or perhaps I am wrong, BUT
The Chevy Volt appears to use its internal combustion engine ONLY to provide burst electricity when the batteries are deemed insufficient. The conditions under which the ICE turns on are fairly complicated but laid out here:
http://www.gm-volt.com/threads/when-will-the-gas-engine-run-guide.18956/
It looks like the ICE seldom turns on UNLESS battery power is running low (and a few other odd conditions).
Where I think something like the Chevy Volt is most appropriate is the same situation where a Tesla makes sense: You *OWN* PV panels to recharge your vehicle or, otherwise, you have access to electricity which is cheaper than the equivalent-energy price of gas. That is what I would like one for.
Under those circumstances the ICE is really just for emergencies when you can't plug the vehicle in.
Am I correct that is what you are asking for? Else I agree with Zim that you are going to lose energy between the ICE and battery, and then the battery to the electric wheel motors.
But for me, that would be perfect. I don't intend to live where there is snow or, otherwise, not enough sunlight to power PV panels on my roof.
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