A New Kind of EV Startup
Slate, a bold new EV startup, is aiming to make electric trucks affordable for everyday drivers. Its first product, the Slate Truck, promises a starting price below $20,000 after federal incentives. Instead of chasing luxury buyers, Slate is focusing on practicality, simplicity, and customization.
With basic features like manual windows and no big screen, the Slate Truck keeps costs low while giving buyers the freedom to personalize their ride. In a market full of pricey EVs, this approach feels refreshingly smart.
Compact, Capable, and Affordable
Measuring just 174.6 inches long, the Slate Truck is a nod to the smaller, more functional pickups of the past. It packs a single rear motor with 201 horsepower and offers two battery options. The standard 52.7 kWh battery provides an estimated 150 miles of range, while the optional 84.3 kWh pack boosts that to 240 miles — perfect for around-town driving and weekend adventures.
Charging is straightforward too. With support for Tesla’s NACS port, it can charge from 20% to 80% in about 30 minutes at peak rates.
Built for DIY Customization
Every Slate Truck starts as a “Blank Slate” — gray body, steel wheels, simple dashboard, and no infotainment screen. Buyers can then customize it through a wide range of accessories, from SUV-style conversion kits to colorful wraps, roof racks, and upgraded interiors.
Slate is even launching Slate University, a library of videos designed to teach owners how to install upgrades themselves. This DIY approach gives customers more control over cost and style, turning vehicle ownership into a truly personal experience.
Big Ambitions for the Future
Slate plans to begin production by late 2026, targeting 150,000 units per year once operations are fully ramped up. With major investors like Jeff Bezos backing the project, Slate has serious momentum behind it.
If it delivers on its promises, the Slate Truck could help rewrite the rules for affordable electric vehicles — and make EV ownership accessible to far more drivers.
