Because of a full-size pickup truck market that is lagging and the challenge that diesel engines face in the U.S., Toyota has decided to put their plans for a diesel Tundra on hold.

There are several things that forced Toyota’s hand.  First, there are technical challenges when it comes to making diesel engines that will meet the standards of federal emissions.  Also, costs for diesel fuel are higher than many people are willing to pay right now.    However, Toyota does believe it will come back to the idea when the economy improves and people become more interested in pickup trucks.  For now, however, people are trying to protect their wallets by purchasing fuel-efficient vehicles with a good auto warranty.

Instead of the Tundra, Toyota has decided to start production of a vehicle that is based on its concept of the A-BAT (Advanced Breakthrough Aero Truck), which was seen at the 2008 auto show in Detroit.  This was one of the favorite vehicles at the show and it has two fuel-efficient drivetrains.