With diesel fuel prices dipping to the lowest levels since 2009, the U.S. vehicle market is prime for potential market increases as several new 2016 clean diesel cars and pickup trucks prepare to hit showrooms in the coming months, according to Allen Schaeffer, executive director of the Diesel Technology Forum.

This past week, AAA’s Daily Fuel Gauge Report indicated that diesel fuel was cheaper than regular gasoline in 21 states and significantly cheaper than Midgrade and Premium gasoline.  Today, California is the state with the largest gap as diesel is 70 cents cheaper per gallon than regular gasoline.

"The major decreases in diesel prices have emerged at a perfect time for drivers as almost 20 new clean diesel cars and pickup trucks are preparing to enter the U.S. market,” Schaeffer said.  “And when you combine the lower cost of diesel fuel along with its 20 to 40 percent higher fuel efficiency than gasoline, clean diesel vehicles make more economic sense for buyers than ever.

Additionally, according to Schaeffer, low diesel fuel prices that come in under already-low gasoline prices are sure the send signals to interested car and truck buyers to consider the diesel option. “More new clean diesel cars and trucks will help improve air quality, reduce carbon emissions and promote energy independence,” he said.

For 2016, the following Clean Diesel pickup trucks have been announced, according to the Diesel Technology Forum: 

2016 Diesel Trucks

• Chevrolet Colorado

• GMC Canyon

• Nissan Titan