Playing devil's advocate here, comparing Slate Truck vs. Ford Maverick

[zipn]

Maverick prices have risen recently due to tariff issues (the Maverick is made in Mexico). I just priced a 2025 Maverick like yours (Lariat trim, Hybrid AWD, 4K tow package) at Ford's "Build & Price" site. Results:

$38,440 Base MSRP (assuming no dealer markup)
$745 for 4K Tow package (no other options)
$1,695 Destination charges
$695 Acquisition fee

Total = $41,575 MSRP and fees

I'm sure it's a great little truck, but seems like a Slate has room to undercut it on price, even in the (likely) event that the federal EV tax credit goes away.

The cheapest Maverick I can build now is $30,535 MSRP with fees. That's for an XL with FWD and no towing package or other options. I wouldn't be surprised if a Slate, even with some options and no tax credit, turns out to be priced competitively.

Yep it’s not cheap. As I mentioned earlier I consider the Slate complimentary to the mav, not a direct competitor. The Bolt EV I and Kia/hyundai low cost EVs are I think the Slate competition.

We ordered our Mav back in November before the 2 recent price updates so got it for a little under 39 k before taxes from Granger Ford (3 % below invoice + $500 farm bureau discount). It’s a couple thousand more now.

 

[YDR37]

I don't like comparing a truck with a tow package to one without tow. That tow rating on the Slate might not be final and could change when they test it before release.

In that case, we can compare the Slate to the base-level Maverick, which does not include the tow package. The cheapest Maverick (XL, Hybrid, FWD) currently starts at $30,535 (MSRP plus fees, according to Ford, assuming no dealer markups). The rated tow capacity for that configuration is 2,000 lbs, which is higher than the Slate, but still pretty much useless.

If you want the tow package, you also have to get AWD. The AWD and tow package together increase the price of the Maverick by $3,760. So the cheapest Maverick with 4,000 lb towing is $34,295.

 

[MotoGary]

People on this forum will try to say “the slate isn’t competing with the maverick” but the fact of the matter is, customers look for value. And pound for pound the maverick wins by a landslide

Do you really think Slate thinks they're going head to head against the Maverick? That's not at all what's going on here. They have a whole different vision. The comparison is just silly. I think Mr "Maverick Resources" dude knows better, but he's playing the "clicks" game.

 

[Swinefuzz]

The whole video was riddled with errors and bias and insinuations and bro posturing. Suggests the Slate Truck would get poor safety ratings due to lacking other features, like more doors? Huh? Says not driving a 4 door indicates you have no friends to haul around. Oh, okay. Even suggested that a car that runs on FREE SOLAR ENERGY is impractical. His reasoning just doesn't make any sense. It's all about having swagger and attitude.

 

[cvollers]

Yet, isn't that Slate's core target market, young'uns?

Maybe, maybe not. It’s a target segment but not their only target segment. Anyone trying to fit the square Slate into a round family vehicle hole is flat out wrong. Young families looking for a family hauler are not the Slate target.

 

[Letas]

Maybe, maybe not. It’s a target segment but not their only target segment. Anyone trying to fit the square Slate into a round family vehicle hole is flat out wrong. Young families looking for a family hauler are not the Slate target.

Yeah, I think this misses the “youngns” market pretty bad.

Can’t effectively haul family.
Needs a home to charge it.
Perfect “second car”.

Not really in touch with the current <40yo market

 

[cvollers]

Yeah, I think this misses the “youngns” market pretty bad.

Can’t effectively haul family.
Needs a home to charge it.
Perfect “second car”.

Not really in touch with the current <40yo market

Unless your single young’n is buying their first new car in which case it’s perfect for moving into that first apartment…the one with charge stalls in the garage.