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Isuzu Trooper mentioned! Consumer Reports did them dirty with the rollover test rigging. Really hurt the sales. Glad to see them on the decline as a reputable information source.

Yeah the spare parts are an issue for less common vehicles. I was getting some Trooper parts from Australia before the tariffs messed that up for awhile. Really a shame how many cars are scrapped by insurance. Cash for clunkers not allowing parts to be sold also didn't help much.

I see the anti-truck crowd is alive and well over here.

Never had anything blow off, if it's that lightweight I have ratchet straps. If there is rain I would use a tarp if I didn't want it getting wet. Never had anything stolen either.

Trucks are way easier to load and unload, and I can fit taller objects easily. Longer objects as well. I really don't have much interest in hauling horse manure in a van or SUV. Same goes for firewood and bee colonies. I also have a trailer which is awesome and sees a ton of use.

Obviously plenty of people don't use a truck for these things, but I really don't care what others do with them. In fact it's awesome having a used truck market clean trucks that have never been put into 4x4.

I grew up on solar, my parents house has been solar only for 35 years now. It depends on where you live and your energy usage. If you want to heat your home in Alaska during the winter with electric heat from batteries, you are in for a bad time. Same with trying to cool a poorly insulated house in Arizona.

Solar equipment was much more expensive at the time my parents switched to it than today, but they still came out way ahead. Still have the original panels up, I forgot what % less they are producing now but they are still kicking. Added a few more over the years, which really helps in the winter. Right now with utility rates skyrocketing they are especially happy not to be caught up in it. Battery replacement factored in of course.

I'm not saying solar only is for everyone, but it has been great for us. Takes awareness of your battery level, the weather, more money upfront, and a decent location.