> If Slate can make a $25,000 EV truck I don’t see why Ford can’t do the same.

I assume the answer is simple: Economics. The profit margin on a Slate truck is probably tiny. Ford can make much more in profits by selling bigger, more expensive trucks.

With inflation running so hot in the US, I will be very surprised if they can keep their promise for a 25K USD base model truck, and maintain it for any significant period of time. I found the preorder agreement here: https://www.slate.auto/en/terms/preorder

    > 1. Preorder
    > By submitting your Preorder and paying the non-refundable deposit (the “Preorder Deposit”), you are securing a firm time slot for the production of a Truck. If you choose to place a Preorder prior to being assigned a delivery window, you will be assigned one when available. This Agreement does not constitute a purchase agreement for a Truck and you are not obligated to purchase a Truck. You will be required to enter into a separate Vehicle Purchase Agreement closer to the time of delivery in order to purchase a Truck and you will be able to select any accessories and configure your Truck at that time. The Vehicle Purchase Agreement will include the final price sheet for your configured Truck and may be with a separate Slate entity. Your Preorder becomes effective upon your acceptance of these Terms and your payment of the Preorder Deposit.

Man, what a word salad! In short, there is no guarantee about the final base price.

I created a poll for this topic here: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=50448128

> If Slate can make a $25,000 EV truck I don’t see why Ford can’t do the same.

The Ford Fathom isn't that far off.

Exactly. $25k isn't what I would call cheap, and Ford has probably decided that at that price (or near it) people rightfully want basic amenities in their truck, like a back seat. I hope Slate succeeds but they have a tough row to hoe.