Quote:
Originally Posted by 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.)
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There is one reason the payload is only 1600 or less it's because of GVW is set at 7000 lbs or 7200 lbs in many states and by the EPA . A truck with a higher GVW then that is classed as a commercial vehicle by many states and the EPA and other gov departments and then you pay a lot more to reg and insure them unlike in Alberta where you chose whether or not to . So all manufactures of trucks have the GVW set there so they have a truck to compete in the largest market witch is the 1/2 ton truck .
The way I see it in the future the truck market will shrink and split even more then now . trucks with a GVW under 7000lbs will become unibody Crew cabs to be able to meet the CAFE laws witch only apply to them . For a lot of people those trucks will be fine as they will drive nice still have 1500 lbs of payload and have a v8 available for the guys who what or need all the power of the heavier trucks .
Then there will be light duty 3/4 tons trucks with a GVW of more then 7500 LBS witch will be more like the current 1/2 tons to keep there curb weight down and make them more fuel efficient because of raising fuel costs . Rather then single wheel 1 tons with a 3/4 ton badge as they are now . those who have even larger trailers or need to haul lots there will still 1 Tons and larger trucks for the working crowd .
As a result of the truck market shrinking Toyota will start to make trucks in other categories to keep the factories running at or near capacity .