Introduction to Slate Electric Truck
Slate, a new automotive startup, has entered the market with a compact electric truck priced at ‘just under’ $27,500. The company’s strategy relies heavily on the current $7,500 federal EV tax credit to bring the price down to nearly $20,000. This potential bargain comes with a caveat: Slate is counting on the tax credit still being available when deliveries begin in late 2026.
Key Features and Cost-Cutting Measures
To achieve the low price point, Slate has eliminated several modern features from its base model. The truck lacks a center touchscreen, sound system, and power windows. Additionally, it features unpainted composite body panels. However, Slate is offering a wide range of accessories to allow customers to personalize their vehicles and add contemporary amenities.
Customization Options
The Slate Truck’s online configurator provides numerous options for buyers to customize their vehicles. Four writers from Car and Driver experimented with the configurator to create unique builds:
Austin Irwin’s Jungle Gem Slate Truck
Austin Irwin created a Slate Truck inspired by the Ford Bronco, using the Jungle Gem vinyl wrap. He added a lift kit but noted the absence of features like a snorkel, Warn winch, and 35-inch tires that are typical in off-road vehicles.
Jack Fitzgerald’s Light Blue Slate Truck
Jack Fitzgerald opted for a street truck configuration, finishing his Slate Truck in custom light blue with silver and Magma accents. He added upgraded bumpers, fog lights, and a lowering kit, maintaining a simple interior with rubber floor mats and crank windows.
Caleb Miller’s Jungle Gem Slate Truck
Caleb Miller created a retro-inspired Slate Truck with a Fastback SUV body kit and a combination of ‘Snow Dog’ and Jungle Gem wraps. He added a lift kit, all-terrain tires, and various Magma accents both inside and out.
Eric Stafford’s Magma Mania Slate Truck
Eric Stafford went for a highly customized SUV version of the Slate Truck, choosing a Magma-mania look with a custom body wrap and various green and brown accents. He added all-terrain tires, a hiked-up ride height, and numerous interior upgrades.
Conclusion
The Slate Truck offers an intriguing blend of affordability and customization. While the base price is attractive, the cost of additional features is currently unknown. The company’s modular design and extensive options list allow buyers to personalize their trucks significantly, potentially making the Slate Truck an appealing option in the growing electric vehicle market.
