Ford and Slate target electric pickups below $30,000, but take different approaches to dashboard technology and manufacturing costs.
The Ford Fathom will offer a built-in touchscreen supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Rival Slate instead expects drivers to use their own phones or tablets for navigation, music and apps.
Both companies are targeting starting prices below $30,000 for their electric pickups. The Blank Slate Truck starts at $24,950, plus a $1,450 destination charge. Meanwhile, Ford lists the Fathom at $28,350, with a further $1,595 destination charge.
The dashboard difference reflects two approaches to affordability: Slate limits built-in electronics, while Ford aims to cut manufacturing complexity.
Ford Fathom offers built-in smartphone integration
Ford says its large touchscreen will support both smartphone platforms, alongside other technology planned for the pickup. The five-seat truck will also offer a digital key, bidirectional power and hardware for next-generation BlueCruise hands-free driving. However, that system requires activation.
By contrast, Slate includes phone mounting and charging as standard rather than a traditional infotainment system. Buyers can also choose accessory speakers and a bracket for a larger tablet.
Navigation, music and compatible apps therefore remain on the driver’s device instead of appearing through a built-in dashboard interface. Slate says owners can download vehicle software updates onto a phone and transfer them to the truck. This approach avoids the need for an embedded cellular connection.
However, a phone offers less screen space than a dedicated dashboard display. Some prospective Slate owners are already discussing aftermarket stereos and Raspberry Pi projects to add smartphone integration.
Different routes to lower electric pickup prices
Slate’s two-door pickup takes a stripped-back approach, while Ford is investing in changes to engineering and assembly. Ford plans to spend $2 billion retooling its Louisville Assembly Plant around its Universal EV Production System.
The automaker says the platform uses 20 percent fewer parts than a typical vehicle. It also needs 50 percent fewer cooling hoses and connections. Meanwhile, its wiring harness is more than 4,000 feet shorter than the first-generation Mustang Mach-E’s.
Ford expects assembly to run 15 percent faster than for the plant’s previous products. Fathom preorders begin in early 2027.
Smartphone connectivity also matters to many potential buyers. Deloitte’s 2025 Global Automotive Consumer Study surveyed more than 31,000 consumers across 30 countries. Among US respondents, 63 percent rated CarPlay or Android Auto connectivity somewhat or very important for their next vehicle.
