We've known for a few years now Volkswagen has considered building a pickup truck for the American market. Just last week at Chicago, the recently refreshed VW Atlas crossover could serve as the basis for such a truck. The German automaker already sells the Amarok pickup truck for the overseas market only, and there are no current plans to bring it stateside. There have also been some rumors VW is considering a new midsize pickup with Ford Ranger underpinnings, a result of last year's big VW-Ford partnership. However, the pickup truck segment is changing and VW is fully aware of this, as well as the Detroit automakers' market dominance.

But still, VW truck rumors continue and Motor Trend managed to catch an update on the matter from the automaker's chief operating officer, former Cadillac president Johan de Nysschen. So, what's happening at the moment? Literally nothing. "[A truck] is not even on the discussion set for North America for the next five years," de Nysschen said.

A business plan for such a vehicle hasn't even been made. Basically, VW North America is extremely busy these days planning new vehicles, specifically EVs, that it doesn't even have the time for a truck. It's simply not a priority, but this doesn't mean it'll never happen. If it does, chances are electrification will play a key role. VW is fully aware of any future pickup on its part would need to somehow stand out from the crowded pack.

"The door is not open for a conventional approach," de Nysschen said. "Electrification represents a new starting point for everyone." Clear-cut evidence of VW's interest in a truck for America can be found in the Atlas-based Tanoak concept as well as the Tarok, a small car-based truck sold only in South America. Neither are all-electric.

Based on de Nysschen's comments, chances are VW would rather pursue an all-electric, possibly ID-branded truck, assuming the order is given. Technically, it's totally possible. The MEB electric vehicle architecture is highly flexible, meaning it can accommodate vehicles of different sizes, designs, and purposes. For example, it will underpin both the Volkswagen ID.4 crossover and the upcoming production version of the ID Buzz reborn minibus.

But for anyone still holding their breath for a VW pickup truck, we highly suggest start breathing normally again because such a project is currently not a priority.