The brushless multi-phase DC motor requires quite sophisticated electronic control systems and power inverters, as well as storage batteries. But with the reliability of modern electronics and some system redundancy, that shouldn't present a huge problem?
Software control to optimise rpm prop pitch and monitor power reserves would, of course, be essential.
As long as weight is kept to a minimum. Which is always the problem with electric vehicles - the weight of the battery systems. But at least mobile phone/blackberry/laptop/PDA demands have already improved battery energy density quite significantly.
But could motor+batteries be kept below the weight of, say, an O-360 and around 300 lb of 100LL?
As for charging, solar wing panels could be integrated into a composite structure - and perhaps a small auxiliary diesel generator for back-up charging?
However, the market for an efficient 2/4 seat light electric aircraft with a 3-4 hour endurance is, regrettably, very small. So the ancient spamcan with its 1950s combine harvester engine is liable to rattle along for many years yet.
Perhaps the military UAV sector will stimulate design of something which could be modified for realistic personal transport?