A Toyota Racing Development executive says that the manufacturer would accept a spec engine in the Camping World Truck Series, noting how valuable that series is for the development of drivers.

David Wilson, president of TRD, made the comments Friday on "Tradin' Paint" on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

NASCAR tested a spec engine for the Truck series multiple times last year and it is expected to be optional this season.

Wilson admits the spec engine idea has raised concerns among manufacturers.

"It is a little bit of a sensitive issue with all the manufactures,'' Wilson said on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. "Arguably the biggest single piece of (intellectual property) in any car or truck is the engine, so certainly that's important to us.

"By the same token we understand the bigger picture. We have been working with NASCAR, all the (manufacturers) have been working with NASCAR to make sure that we keep this series going because here's the bottom line - while our motivation to run in Trucks has changed over the years, it remains an absolute critical step in how we as an industry develop drivers.

"The leap from ARCA or K&N or Super Late Models straight to Xfinity, that's too big of a leap. You need a step and that Truck Series is a very important step. You look the drivers that have come through just in our camp - Erik Jones, Christopher Bell, Daniel Suarez - that experience in the Truck garage has been absolutely critical in preparing them to be successful in Xfinity and ultimately in Cup. We're going to continue to take a big picture approach with the Truck Series and work with our friends at NASCAR. If there are some spec engines that have to be under a Tundra hood, so be it, we'll be OK.''

Those young drivers also illustrate Toyota's emphasis on new talent. But with only five seats - four with Joe Gibbs Racing and one with Furniture Row Racing - with Cup teams partnered with TRD, Toyota is having a hard time finding spots for all its drivers.

Wilson said the manufacturer remains committed to developing drivers.

--- NBC Sports ---