Slate Auto, an electric vehicle startup backed by Jeff Bezos, has recently unveiled its much-anticipated compact pickup truck, affectionately dubbed the "blank slate" due to its highly customizable nature. The vehicle, which aims to appeal to minimalists and budget-conscious buyers alike, features a no-frills design that prioritizes functionality over luxury.
The base model of the Slate truck is designed with simplicity in mind, showcasing a basic dashboard equipped with knobs to control heating and air conditioning, crank windows, and a phone mount for music playback. However, it notably lacks an infotainment system or built-in speakers, although customers can opt to add these features as accessories. The truck's exterior comes in a standard gray finish, but buyers have the option to wrap it in various colors, allowing for personal expression right off the bat.
One of the standout features of the Slate truck is its modularity. Customers can transform the standard two-seat pickup into a five-seat SUV using a special flat-pack kit, showcasing the vehicle's versatile design. The Slate truck is offered with two battery options: a 52.7-kilowatt-hour pack targeting a range of 150 miles and an 84.3-kWh pack aiming for a more substantial 240-mile range. The truck's cargo bed measures 35.1 cubic feet and is five feet long, complemented by a front cargo area, or "frunk," that provides an additional seven cubic feet of storage.
Slate Auto is currently accepting reservations for the truck, which are available with a refundable deposit of $50. The vehicle is slated for delivery around late 2026 and is expected to retail for under $20,000 after the $7,500 federal clean vehicle tax credit is applied. This pricing strategy positions the Slate truck competitively within the growing electric vehicle market.
According to a regulatory filing, Slate Auto received $111 million in Series A funding in 2023, initially operating under the name Re:Car. The company is led by Jeff Wilke, the former CEO of Amazon’s worldwide consumer business. Melinda Lewison, who manages Jeff Bezos' family office, is listed as a director in the filing. Furthermore, TechCrunch reported that Slate Auto informed its employees of closing a Series B funding round last year, although the paperwork for that round has yet to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
The Slate truck's unveiling has sparked interest not only for its innovative features but also for its potential to create a new competitive landscape in the electric vehicle market, particularly between Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk. Both billionaires are already rivals in the space industry, with Musk’s SpaceX and Bezos’ Blue Origin vying for dominance in space exploration.
In addition to its basic features, Slate Auto is set to offer over 100 accessories, ranging from vinyl wraps and new body parts to interior features and upholstery options. This extensive customization capability allows buyers to tailor their vehicles to their personal tastes and needs. For instance, customers can choose to add a lowering kit, upgraded wheels, and various styling upgrades, making each Slate truck a unique reflection of its owner's personality.
The company has also launched an online configurator, enabling customers to design their dream Slate trucks. This tool has proven popular, with many enthusiasts sharing their personalized designs on social media. Some have opted for vibrant colors and unique decals, while others have chosen to keep things simple and functional.
Responses from early adopters and automotive enthusiasts have highlighted the appeal of the Slate's simplicity and affordability. One enthusiast mentioned, "The joy of a simple truck is that it should be as bare bones and simple as possible. I do not want for much in a new utility vehicle, and as such would not fit it out with any of the extravagant accessories Slate has developed for these machines." This sentiment resonates with a segment of the market that values utility and cost-effectiveness over luxury features.
Another customer expressed excitement about the vehicle's customization options, stating, "The great thing about what Slate is doing is that it offers nearly endless customization possibilities. It's truly a 'to each their own' vehicle, and I love that." This flexibility is a significant draw for those looking to create a vehicle that meets their specific lifestyle needs.
Despite its appeal, some potential buyers have expressed concerns about the lack of certain features, such as built-in speakers and a traditional infotainment system. However, many agree that the Slate's design philosophy, which encourages users to utilize their smartphones or tablets for entertainment and navigation, is a forward-thinking approach that aligns with current consumer trends.
As the electric vehicle market continues to expand, Slate Auto's introduction of the blank slate pickup truck could mark a pivotal moment in the industry. With its affordable price point, modular design, and extensive customization options, the Slate truck aims to capture the attention of a diverse range of consumers looking for a practical yet stylish electric vehicle.
In conclusion, Slate Auto’s innovative approach to electric vehicle design, coupled with its commitment to affordability and customization, positions it as a formidable contender in the competitive automotive landscape. As reservations open and consumers eagerly await the truck's release, the company is poised to make a significant impact in the electric vehicle market.
