[sprj8008]

There's lots of additions to a current Tundra that would enhance the vehicle and make it appeal to the niche market. Toyota isn't playing that game. It's not particularly profitable.

If Toyota had a crew cab short box truck with 2500# payload, I would own one. They don't have a CCSB with even 1600# payload once it has fuel, lube and coolant, so it wan't even an option for me.

Toyota isn't going to build a work truck. Toyota does build the nicest truck with reasonable half ton capacity and a Lexus ride compared to what's on the market. A 2000# payload in a tacoma, or a 3000# payload in a Tundra would allow people to use it for work which would cause more wear and warranty claims, decreasing profits. While it's still fashionable to drive a truck or SUV you won't see truck manufacturers stretching the capacity of their trucks to compete. Lots of features and comfort, but performace to match the competition and not much beyond that. (Yes it's a 381hp engine. It can tow 10,000 lbs. Why does it have a 1600# cargo rating? Every farmer I know can tow 20,000lbs with their '83 350 chevy.)

Diesel mileage has gone way down and will continue in that direction to minimize the emissions from the tailpipe. Gas engines are burning cleaner and making more power per gallon. We will likely get back to a place where people who need a diesel will buy one. Those that don't need one will forgoe the fashion of the day and continue to drive gas because it's too expensive. Previously the smell, smoke and cold starting kept people away. Now it's going to be another reason.

I was thinking on the weekend, If you burn used fryer grease but produce high levels of NOX, is that more environmentally conscious than driving a camry that burns liquid dinosaurs but has almost no emissions? If you drive a hippy van from the '70s that has no emission controls, can you actually be a hippy or does mother earth beat you over the head with a falling fir tree to try and get you thinking straight?

Toyota makes a great light truck. When they take over the world I will burn my chevy and pledge aliegence to the brand. Till then, or the 1-ton diesel shows up, I've gotta pay the bills and run the bowtie.