Last time i checked the usf doesnt need a stronger early game. price is fine because faction differences. bloody hell compare the allied halftracks with the ost tracks and you see the allies have a clear advantage.
The 3 rifle > LT > M20 is arguably stronger early game and much stronger for mid/late game, togheter with the open choice of going a different doctrine.
Let's not compare half tracks to each other, it's like comparing USF tanks vs axis tanks. Not to mention the USF half track is arguably worse then the Ostheer one which benefits with flame upgrade and numerous doctrinal upgrades.. So that argument doesn't make sense at all.