by In recent segments of the automotive industry, many startups appear, but few achieve success. A new company called Slate is challenging the norm, promising to build and sell an electric pickup that can be configured as a five-seat off-roader or as a utility vehicle with a rear window similar to a Jeep Wrangler. Prices will start at less than $20,000 after federal incentives.
Slate showcased several prototypes at an event in Los Angeles tonight, and although the brand is new, it already has serious financial backing and appears to have raised over $100 million. The main owner of the fund, Jeff Bezos, has even provided some funding, giving the company a crucial starting point before entering the market.
The company describes its car as a “clean” Slate, so it was simply named Slate. Customers will be offered extensive customization options, allowing them to create their ideal electric vehicle.
The Slate’s foundation is based on a skateboard architecture and is offered with two battery units. The base package is a 52.7 kWh unit, giving the Slate an estimated range of 150 miles (241 km). Those who need to travel a bit further can opt for the larger 84.3 kWh package, which increases the range to 240 miles (386 km). All models use a rear-mounted electric motor producing 201 hp (150 kW).
In the standard configuration, the base Slate has a 5-foot-long body, a maximum payload capacity of 1,000 lbs (453 kg), and a maximum towing capacity of 1,400 lbs (635 kg). It supports DC fast charging at 120 kW, allowing the battery to charge from 20% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes.
The main reason Slate can sell its electric car so cheaply is that it lacks many of the technologies we are accustomed to seeing in modern EVs. It has no radio, speakers, or touchscreen infotainment system. Inside, you’ll only find a basic dashboard with a small digital display and a simple steering wheel. Even the window cranks are manual. Next to the steering wheel is a dedicated phone holder, and Slate is developing an app for it to provide some entertainment options while driving.
All Slate models will leave the factory in this simple form. However, customers will have hundreds of accessories to choose from to personalize their vehicle. Among them will be kits to convert it into an off-roader or an open-top two-door vehicle.
If you want to listen to music during your trip, you should opt for the Bluetooth audio system. If you want any color other than gray, you’ll have to wrap the Slate, which, according to the company, can be done in just 30 minutes, thanks to its simple shape. If you need wheels other than the standard steel ones, they will also be sold as accessories. This is an innovative way of marketing and selling EVs, and only time will tell if it proves to be a good idea.
Although Slate lacks many conveniences, the company aims to achieve top-tier safety ratings. It comes standard with traction control, ESC, automatic emergency braking, airbags, a rearview camera, truck collision warning, and automatic high beams.
Slate has announced that its electric trucks will be produced at a new factory in Indianapolis, Indiana, with customer deliveries planned for the fourth quarter of 2026. Until then, it will continue testing and developing this unique EV, trying to convince American buyers to choose this car.
Slate plans to produce up to 150,000 electric trucks annually. Those who wish to secure a reservation can do so with a $50 deposit.
