A new wave of electric vehicles is here — and Slate is leading the charge. This bold, Bezos-backed startup is flipping the script on what an EV should be: simple, affordable, and deeply personal. Instead of chasing luxury or high-tech trends, Slate brings us back to basics with an electric pickup truck that’s as practical as it is futuristic.

Launching their first model at an event in Long Beach, California, Slate captured attention by promising real change: a customizable EV priced under $20,000 after federal tax credits. As many automakers race toward complex, tech-heavy designs, Slate takes a refreshing, human-first approach, showing that the future of driving can be both smart and simple.

Key Highlights of Slate’s Revolutionary EV Truck

• Affordable EV Solution: Slate targets an under $20,000 price point after incentives.
  
• Minimalist by Design: Manual windows, no standard infotainment screen, and a focus on essentials.
  
• Highly Customizable: Over 100 accessories available at launch, including DIY SUV conversions.
  
• Flexible Configuration: Transform from a pickup truck into a five-seater SUV and back easily.
  
• Environmentally Friendly: Vehicles use wraps instead of traditional paint, cutting emissions and costs.
  
• Focused on Practicality: 150–240 miles range options, robust safety features, and standard North American Charging Port.
  

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Slate’s Bold Return to Simplicity

In a world where vehicles increasingly resemble rolling computers, Slate dares to be different. The company offers a truck with manual windows, no central infotainment screen, and a rugged, unpainted body ready for vinyl wraps. According to Slate’s CEO Chris Barman, they are determined to deliver “the affordable vehicle that has long been promised but never been delivered.”

Their approach speaks to a rising group of buyers who crave ownership without overwhelming tech or debt — a smart strategy considering rising car prices nationwide (TechCrunch, 2025).

Slate’s Impressive EV Performance Specs

While Slate prioritizes simplicity, they don’t compromise on performance. The base truck features a 52.7kWh battery pack that offers about 150 miles of range. For those seeking longer journeys, a larger battery option extends this to approximately 240 miles.

The 150kW rear motor is designed to handle everyday driving needs with ease. Thanks to the industry-standard North American Charging Standard (NACS) port — originally established by Tesla — charging will be straightforward across the expanding public network.

Even though its towing capacity (1,000 pounds) falls below the likes of the Ford Maverick, Slate compensates with practicality and lower size — ideal for urban and suburban users.

Slate’s Customization Revolution

One of Slate’s biggest innovations is customization. Instead of forcing buyers into rigid model trims, Slate offers more than 100 accessories at launch. Customers can personalize their vehicles immediately or upgrade later as needs and budgets allow.

From adding infotainment systems and roof racks to transforming the pickup into an SUV, the possibilities are endless. And thanks to Slate University, a DIY learning hub, even non-gearheads can confidently install upgrades themselves.

By offering wraps instead of paint, Slate also gives owners full freedom over design while eliminating the cost and environmental issues tied to traditional automotive painting.

Why Slate Is Built for Changing Lives

Slate understands that life isn’t static — and neither should your vehicle be. With their modular design, you can switch from a two-seater work truck to a five-seater family SUV without professional help. This flexibility reflects modern living, where users may need different vehicle configurations as their lives evolve.

Moreover, Slate’s minimalist starting point means buyers don’t pay for features they don’t want. Instead, they add only what they truly need.

Safety Standards with Slate’s Smart Choices

Even while stripping back complexity, Slate ensures essential safety is never compromised. Every truck comes with automatic emergency braking, airbags, and a backup camera. These federally mandated features ensure that drivers can feel secure on the road, no matter how minimalistic their truck may appear.

The addition of a frunk (front trunk) with a built-in drain plug adds practical storage space, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts or creative urban uses.

Conclusion: Slate’s Vision for the EV Future

Backed by more than $111 million in funding — including investments from Jeff Bezos and Mark Walter, owner of the LA Dodgers — Slate is moving against the current of high-end, low-volume EV startups. Unlike brands such as Rivian and Lucid, which burn through cash trying to sell luxury models, Slate focuses on volume, affordability, and customer-driven upgrades (InsideEVs, 2025).

With nearly 400 employees and plans for domestic manufacturing in Indiana, Slate is also betting that keeping things close to home will help shield it from some of the economic headwinds facing the global automotive market.

Slate’s CEO summed it up perfectly: “We believe vehicles should be affordable and desirable,” he said during the Long Beach reveal event.

​​FAQs About Slate’s New EV Pickup Truck

1. What is the starting price of Slate’s truck?

Slate aims to offer its pickup truck for under $20,000 after applying the federal EV tax credit.

2. How customizable is the Slate truck?

Extremely! Buyers can choose from over 100 accessories at launch, including options to convert the truck into a five-seater SUV.

3. What is the range of the Slate EV truck?

The base model will have around 150 miles of range, while an upgraded battery will offer about 240 miles.

4. Can I install upgrades myself?

Yes. Slate University provides step-by-step guides to help buyers install new accessories easily, even without a mechanical background.

5. Does Slate offer traditional paint options?

No. Instead of paint, Slate vehicles come unpainted but can be customized with vinyl wraps, allowing for more affordable and eco-friendly personalization.

6. When will the Slate EV truck be available?

Slate plans to deliver the first trucks to customers by the end of 2026.