Slate Electric Truck: A New Affordable Pickup Contender Arrives

So, there's a new electric truck trying to make a splash. It's called the Slate, and it's aiming to be super affordable, which is pretty rare in the EV world right now. Honestly, most electric trucks cost a fortune, so this could be a big deal if they pull it off. They're calling it the Slate Electric Truck: New Affordable Pickup Contender, and it looks like they're going for a really basic, build-it-yourself kind of vibe.

Key Takeaways

• The Slate Electric Truck is entering the market as a budget-friendly option, with prices potentially starting under $28,000 before incentives.

• It features a "blank slate" approach, offering extensive customization through a wide range of accessories and conversion kits.

• The truck is built on a skateboard architecture and offers two battery choices, providing an estimated range of 150 to 240 miles.

• To keep costs down, the Slate skips many modern conveniences, opting for manual controls and a minimalist interior.

• Despite its basic nature, the Slate aims for high safety ratings and offers versatile configurations, including an SUV conversion.

Slate Electric Truck: New Affordable Pickup Contender

A New Contender Enters The EV Pickup Arena

The electric truck market is getting crowded, but most options come with a price tag that makes them inaccessible for many folks. That's where Slate aims to shake things up. They're rolling out a new electric pickup that’s designed to be simple, adaptable, and most importantly, affordable. Slate wants to put an electric truck within reach of the average buyer. It’s a refreshing take in a space that’s often dominated by high-end, feature-packed vehicles.

Affordable EV Truck With Transformative Potential

Slate isn't just offering another electric truck; they're presenting a platform. The base model is a straightforward pickup, but the company has plans for conversion kits that can turn it into a five-seat SUV or even a sportier fastback. This adaptability means one vehicle can serve multiple needs, which is a pretty smart idea for keeping costs down and utility high. It’s like getting a few vehicles in one, all powered by electricity.

Disrupting The Market With A Back-To-Basics Approach

Instead of loading the Slate truck with every gadget imaginable, the company is taking a different route. They're focusing on the essentials, stripping away non-critical features to keep the price low. Think manual windows, traditional knobs for climate control, and steel wheels. This minimalist philosophy extends to the interior, which uses durable materials and a simple layout. It’s a strategy that prioritizes function and affordability over luxury, aiming to make electric mobility a real possibility for more people. This approach has earned it a solid 9/10 rating in early reviews, highlighting its clever features and accessibility Slate Auto electric pickup.

The core idea behind Slate is to build a vehicle that customers can truly make their own. By offering a solid, functional base and a wide array of customization options, they're empowering buyers to tailor their truck to their specific lifestyle and needs, rather than forcing them into a pre-packaged, one-size-fits-all solution.

Unveiling The Slate Truck

Prototypes Shown In Los Angeles

Slate recently pulled back the curtain on several prototype versions of their new electric truck at an event in Los Angeles. It's a bold move for a new company, but they seem to have a solid plan. The prototypes gave us a first look at what this affordable EV could actually look like on the road. It’s exciting to see these concepts move from drawings to something tangible, especially with the buzz around electric pickups.

Significant Financial Backing Secured

It's not just a flashy presentation; Slate has apparently managed to secure some serious financial backing. We're talking over $100 million raised, which is a pretty big deal for a startup. This kind of funding is key to actually getting a vehicle into production and onto our roads. It suggests that investors see real potential in Slate's vision for an affordable electric truck.

Jeff Bezos Invests In Slate's Vision

Adding to that financial muscle, none other than Amazon's Jeff Bezos has reportedly put some money into Slate. Having a high-profile investor like him on board can do wonders for a company's credibility and its ability to attract further investment. It shows a belief in Slate's mission to shake up the electric vehicle market with a more accessible option. This kind of support is a strong indicator that Slate might just be able to pull off their ambitious plans.

The company is aiming to make electric trucks a realistic option for more people, not just those who can afford premium price tags. Their approach seems to be about stripping away the unnecessary and focusing on core utility and customization.

A "Blank Slate" For Personalization

Extensive Customization Options For Buyers

The Slate Truck is really designed to be a starting point, a kind of "blank slate" as they call it, for whatever you want it to be. It's not just about picking a color; it's about building a vehicle that fits your life. They've got a ton of ways you can change it up. You can get different wheel designs, add lift kits or lowering kits, and even choose different tires to change how it drives. It feels like they're trying to let you build your own truck, almost like a custom build right from the factory. This approach is pretty different from most car companies.

The Truck: A Foundation For Personal Expression

Think of the Slate as a base model, but instead of just adding fancier seats, you're adding whole new capabilities. The company is really pushing the idea that this truck is a platform for your own ideas. They've got plans for things like power window modules, heated seat covers, and interior trim kits in various colors. Even the exterior color isn't set in stone; you can get it wrapped in pretty much any color you can imagine, either from the factory or with a kit you can apply yourself later. It’s a neat way to make the vehicle truly yours.

Transforming The Vehicle With Accessory Kits

This is where things get really interesting. Slate is offering kits that can actually change the body style of the truck. You can get an SUV conversion kit, which sounds pretty wild. They're even talking about being able to remove the glass and firewall between the cab and the bed, and then add different rooflines – like a fastback or a more traditional squareback, similar to some SUVs. This means you could potentially go from a two-seater truck to a five-seater vehicle just by swapping out some parts. It’s a modular approach that could really change how people think about utility vehicles. You can even add a mounting bracket for a tablet to use for entertainment, which is a smart move given the lack of a built-in screen. Check out the Slate Electric Truck for more details on its unique features.

The whole idea behind the Slate is to give people a really affordable electric vehicle that they can then make their own. It’s about stripping away the unnecessary stuff to keep the price down, but then giving buyers a huge menu of options to add back what they want or need. It’s a bit of a gamble, but it could really appeal to people who want an EV without the usual high price tag and who like to tinker.

Here's a look at some of the customization possibilities:

• Body Style Conversions: Switch between truck, SUV, fastback, and squareback configurations.

• Exterior Styling: Choose from a wide array of wrap colors, wheel designs, and suspension kits.

• Interior Upgrades: Add heated seat covers, custom trim colors, and tablet mounts.

• Functional Accessories: Options like roof racks and towing packages can be added to suit specific needs.

Powertrain And Performance

Skateboard Architecture With Dual Battery Choices

The Slate Truck is built on what the company calls its "Slateboard" chassis. This is essentially a skateboard-style platform where the battery pack is integrated into the floor. It's a pretty common setup for electric vehicles these days, and it helps keep the center of gravity low. You've got two battery pack sizes to pick from, which we'll get into more detail about in the next section. This flexible architecture is a big part of how they're keeping the price down.

Rear-Mounted Electric Motor Delivers 201 HP

Under the hood, or rather, under the rear, you'll find a single electric motor. It's mounted on the rear axle and puts out a respectable 201 horsepower. Torque is rated at 195 lb-ft. This setup means the Slate Truck is rear-wheel drive. While some might want all-wheel drive, this simpler configuration helps cut down on manufacturing costs. It's a back-to-basics approach that focuses on getting the job done without unnecessary complexity.

Acceleration And Top Speed Capabilities

So, how does it drive? Slate claims the Truck can hit 60 mph from a standstill in about 8.0 seconds. That's not going to win any drag races, but for a truck aimed at being affordable and practical, it's perfectly adequate. It should feel zippy enough for city driving and merging onto the highway. Top speed figures haven't been released, but it's unlikely to be a speed demon. The focus here is on usable performance rather than outright speed.

The Slate Truck's powertrain is designed for efficiency and affordability, prioritizing practical performance over high-end speed. This means you get enough power for daily tasks without the added cost of more complex systems.

Here's a quick look at the performance specs:

• Motor Configuration: Single, rear-mounted electric motor

• Horsepower: 201 hp

• Torque: 195 lb-ft

• 0-60 mph: Approximately 8.0 seconds

• Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive

Range And Charging Capabilities

When you're looking at an electric truck, especially one that's meant to be affordable, figuring out how far you can go and how quickly you can top up the battery is pretty important. Slate is offering a couple of different battery options, which makes sense because not everyone needs the same amount of range, and bigger batteries usually mean a higher price tag.

Two Battery Pack Options For Varying Needs

Slate is giving buyers a choice between two battery sizes. The standard pack comes in at 52.7 kWh. If you're mostly doing city driving or shorter trips, this might be all you need. For those who plan on longer hauls or just want that extra peace of mind, there's a larger 84.3 kWh pack available. This gives you more flexibility depending on how you plan to use your truck.

Estimated Driving Range For Each Pack

So, what kind of numbers are we talking about? With the smaller 52.7 kWh battery, Slate is estimating you'll get about 150 miles on a full charge. Step up to the bigger 84.3 kWh battery, and that number jumps to a more substantial 240 miles. These figures are definitely on the lower side compared to some other EVs out there, but remember, the Slate is aiming for a much lower price point. It's a trade-off, and for many, 150 to 240 miles might be perfectly fine for their daily needs.

DC Fast Charging For Quick Recharges

Nobody likes waiting around forever for their vehicle to charge. Slate has included DC fast charging capability, which is a big deal for practicality. Using a DC fast charger, you can get the battery from 20% up to 80% in under 30 minutes. That's pretty handy if you're on a road trip and need to get back on the move quickly. For home charging, it comes with an 11 kW onboard charger, which can get you a full charge overnight.

The charging setup here is designed to be straightforward. While the maximum charging speed isn't the absolute fastest on the market, it's more than adequate for the truck's intended use and price range. Most owners will likely do the bulk of their charging at home, where the 11 kW charger offers a good balance of speed and convenience.

Battery Size	Estimated Range	Max DC Fast Charge (20-80%)
52.7 kWh	150 miles	Under 30 minutes
84.3 kWh	240 miles	Under 30 minutes

The Reason Behind The Low Price

So, how does Slate manage to offer an electric truck that starts at a price point that feels almost unreal in today's market? It’s not magic, it’s a deliberate strategy focused on stripping away the non-essentials. Think of it as a "back-to-basics" approach, but for electric vehicles. They've intentionally left out a lot of the fancy tech and creature comforts that drive up the cost of most new cars, especially EVs. This means you won't find a built-in premium sound system or a massive touchscreen infotainment display as standard.

Stripping Down Features To Reduce Cost

Slate's philosophy is that the core vehicle should be affordable, and then buyers can add what they want. This means the base model is intentionally spartan. They've focused on the essentials: a reliable electric powertrain, a functional chassis, and basic safety systems. Everything else is either an optional extra or something you're expected to handle yourself, like adding your own phone mount for navigation and entertainment. This strategy is a big part of why the Slate truck can be so affordable, aiming for a starting price in the mid-twenties, which is a rare find in the EV pickup market.

Manual Windows And Traditional Controls

Forget about power everything. The Slate truck comes with manual crank windows, just like cars used to have. The climate control system uses simple, physical knobs instead of complex digital interfaces. This might sound old-fashioned, but it significantly cuts down on manufacturing costs and potential points of failure. It’s a trade-off: you save money upfront and gain a simpler, potentially more durable system.

Steel Wheels And Minimalist Interior Design

Instead of alloy wheels, you'll find sturdy steel wheels on the base model. The interior is designed with durability and cost in mind, using hard-wearing materials that are easy to clean. There's no fancy stitching or soft-touch plastics everywhere. The dashboard is clean and functional, featuring a small digital display for essential information and a dedicated spot for your smartphone. This minimalist approach keeps the price down while still providing a practical space for drivers.

The Slate's strategy is to offer a foundational electric vehicle that customers can then personalize. By removing standard features like infotainment screens and power accessories, they drastically reduce the base cost. This allows buyers to choose what features are important to them, paying only for what they need and want, making electric mobility accessible to a wider audience.

Here’s a quick look at some of the features you won't find standard:

• Integrated infotainment system

• Power windows and locks

• Premium sound system

• Navigation system

• Heated seats

These are often bundled as optional upgrades or available through accessory packages, allowing buyers to customize their Slate without inflating the initial purchase price.

Compact Size, Practical Utility

Surprisingly Small Exterior Dimensions

The Slate Truck might look like a traditional pickup, but don't let that fool you. It's actually quite compact, making it easy to maneuver in tight city streets and park in smaller spaces. This isn't some massive truck that takes up two parking spots. It's designed for everyday use, not just hauling lumber.

A Bed With Ample Cargo Volume

Despite its smaller exterior, the Slate packs a decent-sized bed. It measures five feet long and over four feet wide, giving you a total of 37 cubic feet of space. That's actually a bit more room than you'd find in some other small trucks out there, which is pretty neat. You can fit a good amount of stuff in there for weekend projects or trips to the hardware store. Plus, there's a handy 'frunk' up front for an extra 7 cubic feet of storage – perfect for keeping groceries separate or stashing charging cables.

Payload Capacity For Everyday Tasks

When it comes to hauling, the Slate Truck can handle up to 1,433 pounds. That's plenty for most of your daily needs, like carrying home supplies, gardening equipment, or even a few pieces of furniture. While it's not built for heavy-duty commercial work, it's more than capable for personal use. It's a practical choice for anyone who needs a truck bed but doesn't require the massive towing or payload of larger, more expensive vehicles. You can check out the Slate Truck's basic dimensions to see how it stacks up.

The focus here is on smart, usable space. It's about making a smaller vehicle feel bigger and more capable than its footprint suggests, which is a smart move for an affordable EV.

Here's a quick look at how it compares:

Feature	Slate Truck	Ford Maverick	Ford Bronco Sport
Bed Length	5 ft	4.5 ft	N/A
Bed Volume	37.0 cu ft	33.3 cu ft	N/A
Payload Capacity	1,433 lbs	1,500 lbs	N/A
Frunk Volume	7.0 cu ft	N/A	N/A

Versatile Configurations Available

Standard Single-Cab Pickup Truck Body

The Slate Truck kicks things off with a straightforward, single-cab pickup configuration. This is your classic two-seater setup, perfect for folks who need a reliable workhorse for hauling gear or materials. It comes with a 5-foot bed, offering a decent amount of space for everyday tasks. Think of it as the foundational model, built for utility and ready for whatever you throw at it.

Optional Five-Seat SUV Conversion Kit

Now, here's where things get really interesting. Slate doesn't just want you to have a truck; they want you to have a vehicle that can adapt. For those who need more passenger capacity, there's an optional SUV conversion kit. This transforms the Slate from a two-seater pickup into a five-seater SUV. It's a pretty neat trick, allowing you to bring along friends or family without needing a separate vehicle. This kit essentially reconfigures the rear of the truck, adding seating and making it a more versatile people-mover.

Fastback And Squareback Roofline Options

Beyond the basic truck or SUV form, Slate also lets you play with the roofline. You can opt for a fastback style, which gives it a sleeker, more modern look, or a squareback design that offers a more traditional, rugged SUV appearance, kind of like some classic off-roaders. These options aren't just about looks, either; they can subtly change how the vehicle feels and even impact interior space slightly. It's all part of Slate's idea of letting you build a vehicle that truly fits your life.

The Slate Truck is designed from the ground up to be a platform for personalization. Whether you need a basic pickup for hauling, a family-friendly SUV, or something with a distinct style, Slate offers the building blocks to make it happen. This adaptability is a key part of its appeal, especially considering the affordable starting price.

Here's a quick look at the potential configurations:

• Base Truck: Two-seat, single-cab pickup with a 5-foot bed.

• SUV Conversion: Transforms into a five-seat SUV.

• Roofline Styles: Available in fastback or squareback designs.

• Customization: Further personalization through accessory kits and wraps.

Interior Design And Technology

Minimalist Cabin With Durable Materials

The inside of the Slate truck is intentionally simple. Think less fancy screens and more straightforward functionality. They've used tough materials that should hold up well, even if you're hauling gear or just dealing with everyday life. This back-to-basics approach is a big part of how they're keeping the price down. It means you won't find a lot of the bells and whistles you might expect in other electric vehicles today.

Basic Digital Instrument Cluster

Instead of a large, complex display, the Slate features a straightforward digital instrument cluster. It shows you the important stuff like speed, battery level, and range without overwhelming you. It's functional and gets the job done.

Phone Mount Replaces Traditional Infotainment

Forget about built-in touchscreens and complex infotainment systems. Slate has opted for a simple phone mount positioned right by the steering wheel. The idea is that you'll use your own smartphone for navigation, music, and other apps. Slate is even developing a dedicated app to help integrate your phone more smoothly into the driving experience. This is a pretty novel approach, and it really leans into the idea of personalization and using what you already have. It's a big departure from what most new cars offer, but it fits the truck's overall philosophy of stripping things down to the essentials. You can find more details about this unique setup on Slate's website.

This truck is designed for people who want a straightforward vehicle. It’s about getting from point A to point B without a lot of fuss. If you're looking for a truck that’s more about utility and less about digital distractions, the Slate might be exactly what you're after. It’s a refreshing change from the tech-heavy vehicles that seem to be everywhere now.

Here's a quick look at what you'll find (and won't find) inside:

• Basic digital display for essential driving info

• Durable, hard-wearing interior materials

• No built-in radio or speakers

• Manual window cranks

• Dedicated smartphone mount

It's a design choice that really sets the Slate apart, especially when you consider its affordable price point. This focus on simplicity is a core part of the Slate's appeal.

Safety Features And Future Outlook

Commitment To Achieving High Safety Ratings

Even though the Slate truck is built with a focus on affordability and a stripped-down approach, the company isn't cutting corners when it comes to safety. They're aiming for top marks in safety tests, which is pretty impressive given the price point. Slate is committed to achieving high safety ratings, showing that you don't have to sacrifice protection for a lower cost.

Standard Safety Systems Included

The Slate comes with a decent list of safety gear right out of the box. You get the basics that are pretty standard on most new vehicles these days, plus a few extras that are good to have. It’s nice to see these included without having to pay extra.

Here's what you can expect:

• Traction control

• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)

• Forward Collision Warning

• Full suite of airbags (up to eight with the SUV conversion kit)

• Reversing camera

• Auto high beam

• Remote keyless entry

Potential To Reshape The EV Market

Slate's whole idea is to make electric trucks accessible to more people. By cutting down on fancy tech and focusing on what really matters, they're creating a vehicle that could change things up. It's a back-to-basics strategy that might just work.

The company is betting that many buyers are looking for a functional, affordable electric vehicle that they can personalize. This approach could open up the EV market to a whole new group of consumers who have been priced out until now. It's a bold move that could really shake things up.

Slate is planning to sell its vehicles directly to consumers online, cutting out the traditional dealership model. They're setting up a network for local service work, so you should be able to get your truck looked at in your own neighborhood. Reservations are already open for a small deposit, so if you're curious, you can check out Slate's official website for more details. This direct-to-consumer approach, combined with the truck's standard safety features, makes the Slate an interesting proposition for the future of affordable electric transport.

The Takeaway

So, what's the deal with the Slate Truck? It's definitely not your typical fancy new EV. It's basic, it's affordable, and it's built for people who want to do their own thing with their vehicle. If you're tired of sky-high prices and just need a workhorse that you can actually afford and make your own, Slate might just be the ticket. It’s a bold move, for sure, but if they pull it off, this could be a real game-changer for electric trucks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Slate Electric Truck different from other electric trucks?

The Slate Truck is designed to be super affordable and basic. Unlike other expensive electric trucks, it focuses on being a simple, customizable vehicle. You can add accessories to make it your own, like turning it into an SUV or adding different features.

How much does the Slate Electric Truck cost?

The Slate Truck is expected to start at under $28,000. If you count the government's $7,500 electric vehicle tax credit, the price could be as low as around $20,500, making it one of the cheapest electric vehicles available.

What kind of battery and range does the Slate Truck offer?

You can choose between two battery sizes. The smaller one gives you about 150 miles on a full charge, and the larger one gets you up to 240 miles. All models have a motor in the back that makes 201 horsepower.

How long does it take to charge the Slate Truck?

Using a fast charger, you can get the battery from 20% to 80% charged in about 30 minutes. You can also charge it at home using regular or faster home chargers.

Why is the Slate Truck so much cheaper than other EVs?

Slate kept the price down by leaving out fancy features. It has manual windows, basic controls, and steel wheels. You add the features you want later through accessories, so you only pay for what you need.

Can the Slate Truck be used for more than just hauling things?

Yes! While it's a pickup truck, Slate offers kits to change it into a five-seat SUV. You can also choose different roof styles, like a fastback or a more traditional squareback.

What's inside the Slate Truck's cabin like?

The inside is very simple and built with tough materials. Instead of a big touchscreen, it has a small screen for driving info and a spot to put your phone. It even has hand-crank windows!

Is the Slate Truck safe?

Slate is working hard to make sure the truck meets high safety standards. It comes with important safety features like automatic emergency braking, airbags, and warnings for forward collisions.