State Incentives Are Keeping Slate’s Affordable EV Dream Alive
Slate made waves earlier this year when it announced an all-electric pickup with a starting price under $20,000. That claim was mostly tied to the now-expired $7,500 federal EV tax credit. But even with that incentive gone, Slate’s affordable pricing goal isn’t dead—especially if you live in the right state.
Prices Rise, But the Base Remains the Same
Although Slate’s website now lists a “mid-$20,000” starting price, the company insists the actual cost of the truck hasn’t changed. According to Jeremy Snyder, Slate’s COO, the $25,000 base price was always in place—it just looked better with the federal credit subtracted.
“The price hasn’t changed,” Snyder told InsideEVs during a preview event at the company’s upcoming factory in Warsaw, Indiana. “We just haven’t talked enough about the state incentives still available.”
How Buyers Can Still Pay Less Than $20K
States like Oregon, New York, Illinois, and California still offer significant rebates. Oregon’s Charge Ahead program, for example, can offer up to $7,500 to qualifying low-income buyers. That could bring a $25,000 Slate truck down to $17,500—before taxes and fees.
Illinois offers up to $4,000, though vehicles must be purchased through in-state dealers. New York’s Drive Clean program can take up to $2,000 off at the point of sale. California is actively working to revive and expand its own EV incentive program, with updates expected soon.
In total, 17 U.S. states currently offer EV purchase incentives, though amounts and requirements vary.
Demand Remains Strong
Slate didn’t reveal how many preorders came from buyers in incentive-heavy states, but Snyder said demand exists in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. “There are tons of people who already have reservations and will still get a truck in the teens,” he said.
So, while the headlines may have shifted, the story behind Slate’s pricing is still unfolding—and for many, the deal is still very real.
