(Autoinsidernews) - Toyota unveiled the long bed versions of its all-new 2007 Tundra pickup. Most long bed trucks are work trucks, which are a huge part of half-ton pickup sales, and the new long bed Tundras are no different. The unveiling tokk place as part of the National Truck Equipment Association product conference. The NTEA is a trade association for aftermarket companies that develop and manufacture parts, accessories and systems for work trucks. These companies will get their first chance to measure the Tundra long bed work truck, allowing about five months for development before the truck goes on sale, reports Trend.
The Toyota Tundra long bed will be available in both Regular- and Double-Cab versions. The Double-Cab will have a 165-inch wheelbase, offer room for six and Toyota claims will have class leading interior volume. The bed is eight-feet one-inches long with the deepest box in its class below the rails. The Toyota Tundra long bed will be offered in basic non-metallic White, Red and Black, to go with the regular showroom shiny colors. Standard grade Regular Cab models will come with heavy-duty vinyl flooring. Toyota will also offer an upgraded SR5 model with a range of functional options, appearance accessories, and upgraded fabrics and trim.
Both long bed models will be offered with a choice of three engines, including the 5.7L V8 offering a maximum towing of over 10,000 pounds, and a payload capacity in line with the best in the half ton class.
Taking on Ford, GM and Dodge in work truck market will likely be the biggest challenge for Toyota and the new Tundra. It will be easier for Toyota to sway regular consumers shopping for a truck, but construction and other laborers tend to be more loyal to their brands. Knowing what works for them, they will be less likely to switch. If Toyota takes a few percentage points in this segement in the first year, it is likely to be considered a major win.