Slate, a new American automotive startup, has introduced the Slate Truck, a minimalist, customizable electric vehicle aimed at redefining affordability and simplicity in the EV market.
The Slate Truck launches as a 2-seat pickup with a steel frame, crank windows, basic HVAC knobs, a large frunk, and a 1,400-lb. payload capacity. With over 100 available accessories and an optional flat-pack SUV kit, buyers can transform the vehicle into a 5-seat SUV or modify it to fit changing needs over time.
Power comes from a 52.7-kWh battery pack providing a target range of 150 miles, with an optional 84.3-kWh battery extending the range to around 240 miles. The truck uses a NACS charging port and can fast-charge to 80% in under 30 minutes.
Customization extends to exterior design, with Slate promoting affordable DIY or professional vehicle wrapping options. Rather than building in proprietary infotainment systems, the Slate Truck offers universal phone mounts and USB ports, encouraging drivers to use their preferred tech.
Slate also emphasizes safety, designing the truck to achieve top safety ratings with features like Active Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, and up to eight airbags.
Targeting a price of under $20,000 after federal incentives, the Slate Truck will be manufactured in the U.S. and sold directly to consumers through online ordering and a growing service network.