I rather like Grutch's idea too, since it would allow the creation of themed Empire armies, which seems like a good idea in my book.
As for the debate on the Elector Count versus the General of the Empire, I personally find the latter rather bland, but in order to appease both camps, why not make the Elector Count some sort of upgrade for the General of the Empire Entry, so that players can choose which one they want?
The Elector Count could have access to more exotic magic items, and could have an additional point of WS relative to the General, for example, but I'm sure such an entry could be worked out.