Half-ton and larger pickups have an intimidation factor that is very helpful when one considers the way most people drive. The height of my cab lets me see the cars ahead in plenty of time to pass them and cut them off, after which it blocks their view completely. True, my pickup has large blind spots to the rear left and rear right, but anyone behind me should stay there. My pickup is inherently safe for my fellow drivers. They are always aware of my location because of all the stuff that rattles around in the cargo box and leaves a trail as it flies out onto the road.
Pickups are environmentally efficient because they last longer.
For proof of this, calculate the number of old, beat-up, junky pickups still on the road and compare this figure to other vehicles. Pickup trucks actually reduce traffic. The drivers will park their trucks and use these alternate vehicles off-road, thereby lowering the number of vehicles on the road. Frequently, pickup drivers get the urge to drive the truck itself off-road, once again clearing the highway. Pickup ownership is cost-effective if one considers all factors.