Slate, a Michigan-based electric vehicle startup backed by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, has unveiled its first product: an ultra-basic electric pickup truck aimed at affordability and customization. The Slate Truck is designed to cater to a growing demand for budget-friendly vehicles, targeting a starting price of under $20,000 after federal incentives.
The Slate Truck features a compact two-door, two-seat layout, powered by a rear-mounted electric motor that delivers 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. It comes with a 52.7-kWh battery pack that provides a manufacturer-projected range of 150 miles, with an optional upgrade to an 84.3-kWh battery that extends the range to 240 miles. The truck’s top speed is 90 mph, and it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 8 seconds.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Slate Truck is its ability to transform into a five-passenger SUV. This transformation is made possible through a flat-pack accessory kit that includes a roll cage with built-in airbags and additional seating. Eric Keipper, Slate’s head of engineering, explained that installing the SUV kit actually improves the vehicle's aerodynamics, resulting in a "small percentage" increase in driving range. This innovative approach not only enhances the truck's functionality but also appeals to consumers looking for versatility in their vehicles.
Slate plans to support both individual buyers and commercial operators by allowing DIY customization or professional modifications. The company is developing a digital learning hub, dubbed "Slate University," which will offer tutorials to guide owners through the installation of various accessories. This initiative aims to empower customers to personalize their vehicles to suit their needs.
During a recent preview event in Los Angeles, the Slate Truck was showcased in its original pickup form, characterized by a clean, boxy design. Attendees were treated to a demonstration of how quickly the truck could be converted into an SUV. A team of Slate employees successfully installed the SUV kit in about an hour, highlighting the ease of modification.
Despite its compact size—174.6 inches long and 70.6 inches wide—the Slate Truck is designed to maximize utility. It features a five-foot bed and a front trunk with seven cubic feet of storage. The payload capacity is rated at 1,433 pounds, while the towing capacity stands at 1,000 pounds, making it suitable for various practical applications.
Inside, the Slate Truck embraces simplicity with manual controls, including crank windows and a basic 4.0-inch rear display for backup camera compliance. This bare-bones approach is intentional, as Slate aims to provide a blank canvas for customization rather than a fully equipped vehicle. The absence of a central infotainment screen is offset by a smartphone mount, allowing drivers to use their devices for navigation and entertainment.
Slate’s philosophy centers on rethinking what affordability means in the automotive market. CEO Christine Barman emphasized this vision, stating, "The definition of what’s affordable is broken. Slate exists to put the power back in the hands of customers who have been ignored by the auto industry." This commitment to accessibility is further reflected in the company’s direct-to-consumer sales model, which eliminates traditional dealership markups.
While the Slate Truck’s starting price of under $20,000 is appealing, it remains to be seen how the cost of accessories will impact overall affordability. Slate has not yet disclosed pricing for the SUV conversion kit or other accessories, which will be critical in determining the vehicle's overall value proposition.
The Slate Truck is set to enter production by the end of 2026, with the first units expected to ship to customers in the fourth quarter of that year. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Slate’s innovative approach to electric vehicles could potentially disrupt the market, particularly for entry-level buyers seeking affordable options.
With its emphasis on customization, affordability, and straightforward design, the Slate Truck is poised to attract attention in a crowded marketplace. As consumers increasingly seek vehicles that meet their specific needs without excessive features, Slate’s offering could represent a significant shift in the way electric vehicles are perceived and purchased.
In a landscape dominated by high-tech gadgets and luxury features, the Slate Truck’s return to basics may resonate with a segment of the population eager for simplicity and functionality. As the company gears up for production, the automotive world will be watching closely to see if Slate can deliver on its promises and carve out a niche in the competitive electric vehicle market.
