Hybrid truck technology will keep the big boys rolling

There is no mistake that the Nissan Titan is a lot of truck for the money. But who has the money to spend on this much truck these days, if it isn't earning its keep?

Don't get me wrong. Since the Titan's debut, it has slowly made its way into the market owned by heavyweights like Ford's F-150 and Chevy's Silverado.

But just like everything else these days, gas prices are killing consumers. And if your truck's not earning you money, it's difficult to come up with logic to justify having one just for its looks or because you want to make a statement about your attitude.

Still, America has spoken loud and clear before when it comes to telling it what to do. And contrary to a previous opinion written here, it looks like there will always be somebody driving a truck somewhere ... just to be driving a truck.

Already hybrid technology is at the front of vehicle manufacturer's lists. And hybrid truck technology has been something the government and armed forces have been tinkering with for years.

So as we talk about electric cars and cars that run on all kinds of alternate energy, get ready for the next big thing - the big hybrid trucks.

Comments

[LoveCars]

With 17 mpg highway and 12 mpg city, you'd better not be going too far. Any full size pick-up, even the Ford F-150, doesn't do much better though. It's just not why people buy them, and there will always be a market for them, as you basically said.

[Ivan]

The Titan has a lot to overcome. There's no V-6 or single-cab availability, and Consumer Reports' reliability evaluation, as below average, wasn't as kind as the J.D Powers' reliability ratings cited in your linked article.

[CharlesWayne]

Hybrid technology would certainly help, but even those numbers aren't great. Look at the Yukon Hybrid: $13K option to save 2 mpg. Doesn't seem worth it. I like the Active Fuel Management System on some of the GM trucks that shuts off half of the cylinders when they are not needed. Incereases fuel economy by 4 mpg or more, but it still has the option for full power when needed.

[ckroll98]

Trucks are just too heavy and not aerodynamic to really benefit from hybrid technology to justify the additional costs. Diesel engines and other fuel management options would be better, but until smaller trucks become more popular in hybrid models, I just don't see it catching on. Hybrid SUV's like the Escape and RX400h are good options.

[val]

For every person who buys a truck, there are several who want to but just can't justify it. Hybrid technology will increase sales. It will let some buyers give themselves permission to get one.

[ltorres]

I'm not sure where the market is for a hybrid truck. People who want a hybrid don't really want or need a truck. And those who want a truck can't be too concerned with getting a hybrid. Where's the sweet spot for this kind of vehicle?