Switchboards allow WAY more than two connections. The thing is, you have to start the connection process WITH THE SWITCHBOARD, not the other objects.
In Creative, when experimenting with different possible vehicle configurations (I've been trying to figure out a way to build one around a Large Container that isn't slow as molasses), I tend to use multiple Switchboards on a vehicle. One is the "main power" switch - it connects to the generator. That then feeds to one for turnign the lights on and off, and one or two for turning the motive systems on or off. (Turn off the lights in the day = less power used = more range before needing to refuel, for example.)
Also, maybe you don't know this, but: you need to wire the wheels (or whatever) for power, individually. Same with everything in teh game, actually: there is no "broadcast power", you have to link things up directly, to either a battery pack, a generator, or a switchboard.
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By the by, charging batteries doesn't HAVE to be done with a generator on the design. Build a generator next to your vehicle's parking spot, and connect that to the vehicle's power network. Your batteries will recharge in no time.
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One way to build a self-fuelling vehicle is to use the Vehicle Solar Panel and several batteries. Set up a switchboard that connects the batteries and solar panel; set up a _second_ switchboard that connects to your motive systems, lights, etc. Then connect both switchboards. See, during the day, if you stop to collect esources? You can turn off all the motive stuff that draw2s power, and let the solar panels fill up the battery.
I built a hovercraft like that - it was two Vehicle solar panels (2x3), with twelve batteries, a bunch of hoverpads, a 2x3 cockpit, and a pair of headlights. I could turn off the 'pads and lights, and let the two panels fill the batteries up pretty quickly. :)
