Slate Auto Unveils $25K EV Pickup Truck for 2027

Slate Auto, a Michigan-based startup backed by Jeff Bezos, has revealed its highly anticipated electric pickup truck, simply named Truck. Priced at around $25,000, this compact EV aims to redefine affordability in the electric vehicle market. With a targeted release in late 2026 or early 2027, Slate is positioning Truck as a game-changer for budget-conscious buyers and small businesses.

Affordable Electric Pickup for the Masses

Truck stands out with its bare-bones design, featuring crank windows, steel wheels, and no central touchscreen. The base model, dubbed Blank Slate, comes with a 52.7 kWh battery pack, offering an estimated 150 miles of range. A larger 84.3 kWh battery option extends the range to 240 miles, catering to those needing more distance. Slate keeps costs low by producing a single model in one color, slate gray, and skipping complex features like metal stamping presses and paint shops.

Customization at Its Core

What sets Truck apart is its focus on personalization. Buyers can choose from over 100 accessories, from power windows to unique wraps. A standout feature is the $5,000 SUV conversion kit, which transforms the two-seat pickup into a five-seat SUV with a roll cage and airbags. This DIY-friendly approach encourages owners to modify their vehicles, fostering a sense of pride and individuality. Slate also offers professional installation for those less inclined to wrench.

Compact Design with Practical Features

Measuring 175 inches long, Truck is smaller than the Ford Maverick but boasts a 60-inch bed and a 7-cubic-foot front trunk. With a curb weight of 3,602 pounds, it supports a 1,433-pound payload and a 1,000-pound towing capacity. The rear-wheel-drive setup, powered by a 201-horsepower motor, ensures simplicity and efficiency. Charging options include Level 1 AC (11 hours for a full charge), Level 2 AC (under 5 hours), and Level 3 DC fast charging (20-80% in under 30 minutes).

Targeting a New Generation

Slate CEO Chris Barman emphasizes affordability and accessibility, aiming to attract younger buyers and fleet operators. The company plans to sell directly to consumers, bypassing traditional dealerships, and is now accepting $50 refundable deposits. By late 2027, Slate expects to produce 150,000 vehicles annually at a Midwest factory, possibly near Indianapolis.

Challenges and Opportunities

While the $25,000 price tag is compelling, it relies on federal EV tax credits, which could face uncertainty. Without incentives, the price may climb closer to $27,500. Additionally, the two-seat configuration might limit appeal for families, though the SUV kit addresses this. Slate bold strategy to prioritize accessories and customization could create a loyal fanbase, much like Harley-Davidson or Jeep.

Truck arrives at a time when EV startups face intense scrutiny, with many failing to deliver. However, Slate strong backing, including $111 million in Series A funding, and a team of industry veterans from Ford, GM, and Stellantis, provide a solid foundation. As the EV market evolves, Slate Truck could carve out a niche for those seeking an affordable, customizable electric vehicle.