Well damn TB
It used to be 'pregnant roller skate' ;-)
I don't think they meant to compete with the type of loads and space you describe, impressive as they are. It is definitely aimed for those who want to down size but think Mini's and the like are just too small.
It will always be bus to me. A 2 person with animals and gear or hauling the grandkids around is all I'm looking for. I would probably go with combustion engine, maybe the diesel. Depends on the price and MPG.
Convincing my wife is another story.