[PHOEBISIS]

Derodeo,I am sure I read somewhere Toyota is licensing it's Hybrid technology to some other car maker.I can't remember which one-maybe Ford??It's a good idea since it cost a lot to develope,and currently Toyota isn't making anything with it.They are losing money on every Prius they sell(according to smoething I read).It is great PR of course.
5000lb trucks are a natural for Turbo Diesel power,especially since they can make them quieter,and cleaner with the Euro spec fuel.The Euros use them on everything-on tiny 2000 lbs vehicles.A decent Turbo diesel could probably get us an honest 16-18 mpg city,and 22-23 hy and still make 300+hp.A lot of the Ford guys brag about getting 18 mpg city with their Powerstrokes right now!(My neighbors 2002 F-250 gets just 11 however).The newest Powerstroke does have some serious QC and engineering problems,but that is Fords problem-nothing inherent to Diesels.
A Diesel is a lot simpler than a Hybrid,and probably cheaper,maybe even lighter-Toyota is subsidizing the Prius and it still sells for $27000 loaded-$6000 more than a loaded Accord 4 cyl.
Nissan must have a homemarket Diesel they could plug in.I'd like to see it. I should have my head examined for planning to buy a 12 mpg city vehicle now,but the motor is sooooo nice,I can't resist!!Luck,Charlie