[avidiax]

> Companies would be happy to sell compact pickup trucks that got 30mpg but they aren't allowed.

It seems quite possible to take a sedan and replace the back seat and trunk with a bed and still meet requirements. I'm sure that configuration is a bit less aerodynamic, but it shouldn't be a deal breaker.

Meanwhile companies like Ford are not selling any sedans at all. It seems they think it's more profitable to sell only light trucks and SUVs.

That makes me doubt that the manufacturers "can't" produce compact trucks.

[qball]

>It seems quite possible to take a sedan and replace the back seat and trunk with a bed and still meet requirements.

These already exist, they're called "utes".

Modern compact utility vehicles are simply the North American equivalent of this concept; we simply prefer a carpeted, covered bed.