Slate Truck unveiled: An affordable, customisable EV

Base price of $20,000

A new American electric vehicle startup is turning heads in the automotive industry by breaking the rules. Slate, an auto manufacturer, has announced its radically simplified and customisable electric pickup, known simply as the Slate Truck. It is bold, back-to-basics, and aims to deliver electric mobility at a price that breaks the mould.

The Slate Truck is currently in pre-production, and while specifications and pricing are still subject to change, the company has already made waves by targeting a price under $20,000 after federal incentives. This move positions it among the most affordable EVs on the US market. Importantly, Slate’s approach is not just about lower cost—it’s about handing control back to the driver.

Built on a unique philosophy that strips away unnecessary complexity, the Slate Truck is manufactured in just one factory configuration. The 2-seat electric pickup offers a blank canvas for buyers to build the vehicle they need. From the outside, the truck boasts a clean, timeless silhouette, featuring steel wheels and a simple, yet practical design. Inside, you’ll find no flashy touchscreens or voice assistants—crank windows and tactile HVAC knobs that deliver a refreshing, intuitive user experience.

At the heart of Slate’s philosophy is personalisation. Customers can select from over 100 accessories at the time of purchase or later to adapt their truck as their lifestyle changes. Perhaps the most headline-worthy of these is the SUV conversion kit. This optional add-on transforms the base pickup into a 5-seat SUV with a roll cage, rear seat, and airbags. Buyers can install the kit or opt for professional assembly, offering unparalleled flexibility.

Slate’s CEO, Chris Barman, puts it plainly: “The definition of what’s affordable is broken. Slate exists to put the power back in the’ hands of customers whom the auto industry has ignored. Slate is a radical truck platform so customisable that it can transform from a 2-seat pickup to a 5-seat SUV.”

The focus on do-it-yourself upgrades extends to the vehicle’s exterior as well. Slate trucks are designed to be wrapped rather than repainted, making personalising your vehicle with new colours or designs easier and more affordable. There are three levels of wrapping available, and drivers can choose to do it themselves or hire a professional to do it for them. Wrap, unwrap, rewrap—the choice is yours.

Inside the cabin, Slate also lets drivers “bring their own tech.” Rather than forcing buyers into proprietary infotainment systems, the truck features a universal phone mount and USB power. Do you prefer your favourite navigation app or media service? Use your phone or tablet—there’s no need to learn a new interface.

Under the skin, the Slate Truck is built for practical electric performance. The standard 52.7-kWh battery pack powers a 150 kW (201 hp) motor that drives the rear wheels. It delivers an estimated range of 150 miles.

For those who need to go further, an 84.3-kWh battery pack is available as an accessory, extending the estimated range to 240 miles. Charging is convenient too: plug into a household outlet overnight or use a 120-kW DC fast charger to reach 80% in under 30 minutes. It’s all handled via the NACS charging port, the new standard for many EVs in the US.

Safety, as expected, remains a top priority. Slate aims for the truck to achieve top safety ratings with features like Active Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, and up to eight airbags. The lightweight construction and rear-wheel drive layout contribute to solid handling, while a MacPherson strut front suspension and De Dion axle at the rear provide a reliable and rugged ride.

In terms of capability, the truck offers a 1,433-pound payload and can tow up to 1,000 pounds—plenty for weekend projects or light commercial use. A spacious ‘frunk’ (front trunk) adds seven cubic feet of lockable storage, while the main bed offers 37 cubic feet of space. Dimensions are compact and urban-friendly, with a total length of 174.6 inches and a height just over 69 inches.

Slate’s transparent pricing model adds another layer of appeal. Rather than obscure fees or complicated trim levels, customers pay for the base vehicle and then choose only the extras they need. With federal tax incentives applied, Slate expects the base price to dip below $20,000—a striking offer in a segment where affordability often takes a backseat to flashy technology.

Manufacturing will occur in a reindustrialised factory in the United States, alongside a dedicated customer experience centre. Sales will be direct-to-consumer, and Slate also plans a nationwide service network to support customers after purchase. Vehicle reservations are now open at Slate’s website with a refundable $50 deposit.

As demand for EVs grows and consumers seek more tailored, flexible mobility solutions, Slate might have found the winning formula. The Slate Truck isn’t trying to be everything to everyone. It’s trying to be exactly what you need—and nothing you don’t.

Image: The Slate Truck is currently in pre-production. Credit: Slate

Last Updated on 2 weeks by Arnold Pinto