SIM, while flexible, will not solve your problem. I have AT&T; they use SIM cards. If I am not eligible for an upgrade, I still have to buy the phone at full retail. About the only thing SIM cards do is allow you more flexibility once you buy the phone, but it doesn't make it any cheaper. That aside, if you want the Alias 2 and you are not eligible for an upgrade, you have to buy the device at full retail and simply switch it using the OLAM (Online Account Manager). I don't have VZW anymore, but there's an option in the OLAM to switch devices. You simply have to enter the ESN for the new device and follow the instructions. It's not as convenient or flexible as a SIM card, but it works.
