In case the jargon isn't transparent, in automotive a 'skateboard' is roughly a flat frame with batteries, motor, motor controller, and suspension onto which you can bolt the rest. A vehicle platform, really.
Thanks for that. The jargon wasn't transparent at all. Makes perfect sense once it's pointed out though.
"body on frame, but with a marketing twist so that keyboard commandos don't crap on it by making comparisons to antiquated vehicles"
OP is referring to the battery, power electronics and drivetrain. If you picture lifting the body off - sorta looks like a skateboard.
(although cars like Tesla are highly integrated - there's probably still good money to be made in selling the "dev kit")
I assume it’s the name for just a battery + chassis + electric drivetrain. Let’s customers put whatever “shell” they need over it.