Slate, the American EV startup that has been shrouded in mystery for the past month, has finally lifted the veil off its flagship model. The all-electric pickup truck comes with a range of over 100 accessories, the option to convert it into a five-seat SUV, and believe it or not, crank windows. The best part? This no-frills electric vehicle comes with an enticingly low price tag, starting at under $20,000 after factoring in US tax incentives.
Speculation about Slate had been rife, with hints from industry insiders fueling the curiosity surrounding this new entrant in the EV market. The company’s LinkedIn page revealed that they had already assembled a team of 200 to 500 employees, with job postings indicating a focus on electric vehicles. The buzz around Slate reached a crescendo when real-world images of the EV surfaced just before Tesla’s earnings call, leading to comparisons and theories about the relationship between the two brands.
Slate’s approach to the EV market is a departure from the norm. Instead of launching high-end luxury models with hefty price tags, Slate is targeting the average consumer with a budget-friendly, customizable electric pickup truck. The CEO of Slate, Chris Barman, emphasized the company’s mission to empower customers who have been overlooked by the auto industry, offering a platform that can transform from a two-seat pickup to a five-seat SUV.
The design philosophy behind Slate’s flagship model is simplicity and versatility. The vehicle serves as a blank canvas for customers to personalize with a wide range of accessories, from steel wheels to a flat pack SUV kit that can be installed by the customer or by Slate in Michigan. The emphasis on customization extends to the tech features as well, with a universal phone mount and USB power integrated into the dashboard.
In terms of specs, Slate’s electric pickup boasts a single motor rear-wheel drive powertrain, with the option of a 52.7 kWh or 84.3 kWh battery pack. The vehicle offers a range of up to 240 miles on a single charge, with a top speed of 90 mph and a towing capacity of 1,000 lbs. Charging options include Level 1 AC, Level 2 AC, and Level 3 DC, with fast charging capabilities that can replenish the battery to 80% in under 30 minutes.
Slate is now accepting reservations for its flagship EV, with a $50 deposit securing a spot for interested customers. Production is expected to begin in the US, with initial deliveries slated for Q4 2026. As the EV market continues to evolve, Slate’s no-nonsense approach to affordable electric vehicles could prove to be a game-changer in the industry.
