Slate’s Ambitious Electric Pickup Truck
Slate, a new electric vehicle startup backed by Jeff Bezos, is shaking up the automotive industry with its modular electric pickup truck simply called ‘Truck’. The company claims it will be available for less than $20,000 after federal incentives, making it potentially one of the cheapest new vehicles on the market.
The Slate Truck is designed with modularity in mind, allowing customers to convert it into an SUV using an accessory kit that includes a rear bench seat, roll cage, and plug-and-play airbags. This kit can be installed DIY or by a dealer. The truck features a single-cab configuration with a 60-inch deep and 42.9-inch wide bed, which is comparable to the Ford Maverick in terms of size.
Key Features and Specifications
- The base model comes with a 150-kW motor powering the rear axle and a 52.7-kWh battery pack, offering a projected range of 150 miles.
- An accessory battery pack is available to extend the range to 240 miles.
- The truck has a payload capacity of 1,433 pounds and a towing capacity of 1,000 pounds.
- It features MacPherson strut front suspension and can achieve 0-60 mph in 8 seconds.
- Charging capabilities include 3.6-kW Level 1 AC, 11-kW Level 2 AC, and 120-kW Level 3 DC fast charging.
The Slate Truck is designed to be basic, with a ‘bring your own’ infotainment system approach, providing a universal mount and USB power port. The interior is Spartan, reflecting its budget-friendly nature.
Market Potential and Challenges
Slate’s success hinges on the continuation of the $7,500 federal EV tax credit. Without it, the base price could jump to $25,000. Deliveries are planned to start around late 2026, with refundable $50 deposits now being accepted.
The market reception remains to be seen, but Slate’s innovative approach to an affordable, modular electric pickup truck is certainly noteworthy.
