Slate Auto, the electric vehicle startup backed by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, is set to begin production of its first models at a massive facility in Warsaw, Indiana. The 1.4 million square-foot factory, previously used as a printing company until 2023, will be retooled to manufacture Slate’s initial EV offerings.
Key Details of Slate’s Plans
The company, which launched last week, aims to deliver its first models by late 2026. Slate’s initial product will be a bare-bones EV pickup truck priced at around $27,500 before any federal EV tax credits. The base model will come with a standard 47-kWh battery, offering an estimated range of 150 miles. Customers will also have the option to upgrade to a 75-kWh battery pack, increasing the range to approximately 240 miles.
Spartan Design with Extensive Customization Options
The Slate Truck is designed with simplicity in mind, featuring roll-down windows and manually adjustable rearview mirrors. The vehicle will not come with an infotainment system; instead, it will include a docking setup for customers’ phones or tablets. Speakers will be available as an additional accessory. To cater to diverse customer needs, Slate plans to offer over 100 accessories, including a factory lift kit, vinyl wraps, and an SUV conversion kit that adds a roof panel and a three-across bench seat.
Production and Future Plans
Slate Auto will need to retool the Warsaw facility to accommodate the production of its electric vehicles. The factory includes office space and two production facilities, each spanning about 600,000 square feet. While the company has not disclosed the exact amount of space it plans to utilize, the facility’s capacity is expected to support Slate’s production goals.
As Slate continues to make headlines in the EV sector, the company’s focus on providing a basic vehicle platform with extensive customization options is likely to appeal to customers seeking affordable and adaptable electric vehicles.
