As 2007 came to a close, we took a look back at some popular feature and options I thought were good additions to new trucks. Now let's look at 2008 and beyond, and talk about a few promising truck accessories. Most are available through aftermarket companies now, but it's real possible we'll see more of them as factory options in the next few years.
Power Retractable Running Boards
Most of the trucks I've driven lately are tall enough to make some type of side step a necessity, even 2WD vehicles that haven't traditionally been as tall as their 4WD counterparts. AMP Research (distributed by Bestop) offers a power retractable running board that provides easy access, but folds underneath the truck when not in use. It's a good choice for people who don't like the looks of conventional running boards, but need something to help them get into and out of their trucks.Keep an eye on new trucks, because we'll see some factory versions of the retractable board.
Truck Bed Steps
Truck bed accessories are more plentiful than ever, and bed steps top my personal "want" list. The 2008 Ford Super Duty introduced a handy step that pulls out of the tailgate, along with a flip-up grab bar to help you hoist yourself into the truck. Several manufacturers are installing steps that mount at the side of the bed, somewhere along the rear, or in the trailer hitch receiver. Some of the bed steps are stationary, but others slide or fold away with springs or hydraulic assists. If you install your own, position the steps where they'll help you most, like ahead of the rear wheel for easier access to cargo at the front of the bed.Accessory-Friendly Dashes & Audio Systems
We all want to use our existing electronics in our trucks. Navigation systems, iPods, cell phones, satellite radios -- they all need some sort of built-in slot. New trucks are beginning to accommodate us, with bluetooth connections, multiple dash plugs and radios that are capable of working with our accessories. Ideally, dashes or consoles would be set up to help us mount our portable units or have compartments to hold them -- a flat, smooth surface where suction cup could be secured would be a good start. There's not much space to mount accessories on a windshield, and in some states windshield mounts are illegal. Watch for more accessory-friendly trucks as we move forward.Better Jacks for Changing a Flat Tire
It's a pain to get the spare out from under most trucks, and then figure out how the jack and its tools work. Some aftermarket jacks look much easier -- and safer -- than the current standard factory issue. A jack made by Grand Rapids Industrial Products is similar to a conventional jack, but powered by an electric motor that works through the truck's cigarette lighter plug. Then there's the Bushranger X-jack. Put it just far enough under the truck to contact the frame or body and connect it to the exhaust pipe. Start the engine and the jack inflates, elevating to 31" and supporting up to 8,800 pounds. Titan makes a similar jack. Manufacturers won't give us these jacks, but they'll hopefully make improvements to current systems.Factory Removable Storage Drawers
If you're like me, you carry a lot of stuff around in you truck. I usually carry at least a tow strap with D-rings, along with a set of jumper cables. I can stow them under the rear seat, but they move around and rattle. A pullout drawer to store small items would be perfect for trucks with rear seating, and if drawers were easy to remove, they could be taken out if you need to fold down the seat.Manufacturers have improved truck storage in recent years, with larger consoles and multiple glove boxes -- the recent generation Silverado is a good example. The Honda Ridgeline has a "trunk" that's positioned under the truck bed. The Toyota A-BAT concept is one truck with a drawer in the bed. Extra storage is a trend that will continue.
