If they started shipping a small truck, I bet it would sell. And sell an updated version of the leaf with temperature regulated batteries, fast charging, and a modern charging connector instead of Chademo. A decent delivery van would also add to their bottom line.
Your memory is correct. Just about all car makers had small trucks in the 80s. Mazda even had the B2000 in the early 2000’s (rebadged and resold by Ford as well). Auto manufacturers have just gotten addicted to that sweet brodozer profit margin since then.
I've had two Frontiers! A 2008 that was the best vehicle I ever owed! So of course an idiot ran a red light and destroyed it. Because insurance was jerking me around I ended up buying a ratty 2006 Frontier that had been abused pretty bad. I've put 25k on it with rod knock and it just keeps going. That knock is coming to an end now though lol! I'm going to need to swap the engine out or end up with extra ventilation soon!