I am not sure if the piece by Mike was a bit of light-hearted Christmas chat, or something based on more serious good intent. In assuming the latter, I must ask whether he is prepared to use the same engine for all his models whatever their size or type? Does he accept that different woods or perhaps carbon fibre may be needed for different models? Does he expect to use the same fuel for his car weather it be diesel or petrol? The simple answer must be NO. We all have different items for different equipment. Development and evolution dictates this.
I feel that, whereas we are able to readily accept changes and handling requirements with the traditional elements, viz. the more mechanical and structural side of things, when it comes to anything electrical however, the Black Art Syndrome takes over. Irrationally we say to ourselves, "Why can't we use the same for all?" The simple answer is that many electrical items are so totally different (like comparing a steam engine with and petrol engine), that to make one thing to cover all would be far too costly and complicated. Believe me, we see every week someone who can't work out how to re-programme some piece of charging equipment that claims to be able to do it all. Some manufacturers strive to keep things as simple as possible so keeping mistakes to a minimum. Some falsely claim ALL and leave it to you to discover the small print when it may be too late. No, I am afraid, with such a rewarding and satisfying hobby as ours we have to accept a degree of new requirements as things develop. This has to cover electrical items as well as those mechanical and aerodynamic.
Oh, we mustn't forget that there is a different type of crystal needed for many R/C outfits. Then again, perhaps this is an area where some standardisation would not go amiss. Food for thought!