With news that Ford is delaying the 2009 F-150 release and GM might not invest in a new full-size truck/SUV platform for a while, it's worth asking if body-on-frame design will continue to be a fixture in the days of $4+ gas. Certainly, there's a need for big, tough trucks. But is that the largest market need?

Certainly, contractors and those who spend significant time towing will want a sturdier vehicle for their hauling and work. Right? What about SUV's? People seem to be more inclined to buy the Ford Edge, something being reflected in Ford's decision to reconfigure production for higher CUV capacities. Will the Ford Expedition be profitable enough to build in the future? Be the prognosticators. What will happen in 2012?