Article: Ram CEO: Slate Vehicles Won't Be So Cheap Once Buyers Get Done Optioning Them Up

[OldGoat]

My granddaughter is about to begin driving and in shopping for a safe vehicle we (like so many) are shocked at what used car prices are! And sadly, we don't trust the dealers so much anymore. Buying from a private owner you know would be the lucky route but rare too. Slate is perfect for those starting out. And anyone like us looking for a second vehicle to replace an older "troublemaker" that is becoming insanely expensive to keep running. Slate will appeal to a huge number of folks.
Jumped on the Ford Mach E site this morning and read two full pages of posts about Radio Problems! How owners had to disconnect the 12v battery and other machinations to get their radio function back. So likely will see a lower rating on the Mach E with J.D. Power for issues having zero to do with whether the car reliably got you to where you need to go every day and how little maintenance it needed. Nope...darn radio cut out so it's a lemon. . Next I suspect (like with laptops, phones) the car companies will "stop support" for their gadgety, loaded to the gills with shimmery tech, vehicles that need updates every month so you are forced to buy a new one every three years. Yeah...I'm kidding but then again....

 

[cadblu]

We are having a hard time, wrapping our brains around a manufacturer, making only one vehicle at the factory. I saw a statement that any customizations would be DIY or third-party partner at service centers around the country. I have not seen any statement that they would do customizations at the factory.

As far as we know, this is Slate’s current position. According to Edmunds.com:

Because all of the trucks will be built as “blank slates” when they leave the production facility, installing the options looks a little different than usual.

You the customer can have your accessories delivered to your home for a DIY installation to save a little money, or you can pay to have your truck shipped to a facility prior to delivery where a professional will install everything for you.

It will be interesting to see how this plays out along with the logistics/ shipping costs for both options.

 

[SlateChick]

The RAM CEO makes a good point for those who plan to option the Slate to the max. However, even with the options it's still better than anything RAM has to offer. It sounds like he's just salty RAM doesn't have anything comparable. Not innovating in the EV space doesn't help them either. The EV Charger is a total flop and embarrassment.

I was going to get the Charger EV but after hearing the reviews, I said no way.