Dodge eco diesel pickup??

I think the idea of getting a cheap commuter car makes sense. If he is doing 100 miles a day, have him pick up a inexpensive small, or midsize car that is two or three years old. That way the big hit on depreciation is gone, and you should be able to get something with under 25k mile. Most modern cars will go 150-200k or more with good maintenance. Then he can pick up a nice used half ton, which will last a long time doing weekend, and wife duty.