Industry observers are watching to see if other foreign-based brands will enter the segment as well. Honda seems likely, though it insists it has no plans -- for now.
Volkswagen has also sworn off the idea. But it was a moderately successful pickup maker in the past and some analysts think this option remains open.
While the pickup doesn't have the glamour of the SUV, it also has avoided some of the angry, and increasingly strident criticism leveled against the gas-hungry ute.
But industry officials admit they are concerned about the potential for a consumer backlash if US fuel prices continue rising.
GM, DaimlerChrysler's Dodge division and Ford all offer diesels on their larger pickup lines, but they are considering diesel options for models in the F-150 class, as well.
The giant automaker will launch a gasoline/electric hybrid on its full-size pickups next year. And it will offer displacement on demand too.
That technology shuts off half of an engine's cylinders when power demands are low. GM is betting it will appease consumer concerns about low pickup fuel economy.
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