Slate Auto Unveils Affordable EV Pickup Truck with Modular Design
Michigan-based startup Slate Auto unveiled its first vehicle, a $25,000 EV pickup truck, at an event in Long Beach on Thursday night. The startup, backed by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, aims to begin deliveries by the end of 2026. The low-cost, back-to-basics pickup is designed to allow buyers to add features after purchase, offering a unique modular approach to vehicle ownership.
The Slate Truck will start at $25,000 when it goes on sale in 2026, with potential tax credits reducing the price further. The base model comes with basic amenities such as steel wheels and crank windows, allowing customers to customize their vehicle with over 100 available accessories. This approach gives owners the freedom to choose what features they want, either at the time of purchase or later, depending on their budget.
Key Features of the Slate EV Pickup
- 52.7 kWh battery pack with 201-horsepower electric motor
- Target range of 150 miles, upgradable to 240 miles with larger 84.3 kWh pack
- Advanced safety features including automotive emergency braking and forward collision warning
- Optional SUV kit available, converting the truck into a five-passenger SUV
Slate CEO Chris Barman explained that the company’s goal was to keep the base vehicle cost low, giving owners flexibility in customizing their truck. “We wanted to get that cost out of the base vehicle,” Barman told Business Insider. “It really gives freedom of choice to the owner of what accessories they would want to put on the vehicle.”
The modular design allows for retroactive upgrades, including the SUV conversion kit, which can be installed as DIY projects or done professionally. This approach aims to inspire a new generation of car owners who may not have considered working on their vehicles before.
The Slate Truck is now available for preorder with a $50 refundable deposit. With its competitive pricing and customizable features, the Slate EV pickup aims to disrupt the EV market and challenge established players like Tesla.
