Slate has struck a nerve with the industry and consumers, says Former Ford CEO Mark Fields

EV Startup Slate's Potential - Slate is targeting the affordable EV market, differentiating itself from high-end EV manufacturers [2][3] - Slate's simplified manufacturing process, including injection-molded body panels, aims to reduce capital expenditures [3] - The average vehicle cost is approximately $48,000, creating an opportunity for more affordable options [4] - Slate's pickup truck size is reminiscent of the smaller, commuter-focused pickups of the mid-90s [5] Challenges and Risks - Scaling manufacturing and supply chains is a significant challenge for EV startups [6] - Sourcing components solely from the US may shield Slate from tariffs but could increase costs [8] - The removal of federal incentives for EVs impacts the final price for consumers [9] - Pre-order numbers can be misleading and may not accurately reflect actual sales [11][12] - Increased competition is expected with Ford and other manufacturers entering the small EV pickup market [13][14] Pricing and Market Positioning - Slate initially announced a price of around $27,000, which was expected to be reduced to approximately $20,000 after federal incentives [9] - Vehicles priced below $30,000 could appeal to first-time buyers and those seeking affordability [10] - Maintaining the target price point will be challenging but crucial for success [14] Production Capacity - Slate's plant has a production capacity of 150,000 units [10]