● Covered by 1 source · 3 reportsLow impact3 neutral
Slate Truck adopts 'bring your own tech' model to achieve affordability
Key points
- Slate Truck starts at $24,950 for the base model.
- Drivers use personal smartphones/tablets for the center console.
- Add-ons like speaker mounts and tablet mounts are sold separately.
- A 4-inch LCD behind the steering wheel displays the backup camera feed.
- Slate Truck has a $1,450 destination charge.
- Slate Truck has a projected range of 205 miles.
- Preorders require a $300 non-refundable deposit.
- Slate Truck is only available for purchase in the United States.
- Slate was established in 2022.
- Slate has attracted about $1.4 billion in funding.
- Jeff Bezos' family office is an investor in Slate.
- Slate Auto is a Michigan startup.
- Slate Truck is also available as an SUV.
- Slate Truck has a 135 kW rear-mounted motor.
- Slate Truck has 181 horsepower.
- Slate Truck has 195 lb-ft of torque.
- Slate Truck has 2,000 pounds of towing power.
- Slate Truck has an 8-second 0-60 mph time.
Minimalist Approach to EV Design
The Slate Truck, an electric vehicle startup backed by Jeff Bezos, has adopted a "bring your own tech" philosophy to reduce its base price. This means the vehicle does not include a built-in infotainment system; instead, drivers integrate their personal smartphones or tablets to serve as the central console display.
Affordability and Customization
The base model, named "The Blank Slate," starts at $24,950, making it the most affordable pickup truck and EV on the market before fees. The price can increase up to $46,493 depending on chosen add-ons. This pricing strategy is a direct result of omitting integrated tech features, allowing for a lower entry cost.
Standard Features and Tech Integration
The Slate Truck is available in three body styles: a two-seat pickup, a fully enclosed SUV, and a fastback. All models include a built-in mount and USB port for phone connectivity. While there is no integrated speaker system, space is provided for a portable Bluetooth speaker mount. For legal compliance, a 4-inch LCD screen behind the steering wheel activates to display the backup camera when the vehicle is in reverse.
Optional Tech Add-ons
Customers can purchase additional tech features separately, such as a tablet mount for larger screens and a speaker mount. Pricing for these add-ons has not yet been announced. This modular approach allows drivers to customize their vehicle's tech setup according to their preferences and budget.
Updates
- Slate Auto is a Michigan startup.
- Slate Truck is also available as an SUV.
- Slate Truck has a 135 kW rear-mounted motor.
- Slate Truck has 181 horsepower.
- Slate Truck has 195 lb-ft of torque.
- Slate Truck has 2,000 pounds of towing power.
- Slate Truck has an 8-second 0-60 mph time.
- Slate Truck has a $1,450 destination charge.
- Slate Truck has a projected range of 205 miles.
- Preorders require a $300 non-refundable deposit.
- Slate Truck is only available for purchase in the United States.
- Slate was established in 2022.
- Slate has attracted about $1.4 billion in funding.
- Jeff Bezos' family office is an investor in Slate.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
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How outlets covered it
Slate Auto, a Michigan startup, introduced the Blank Slate EV truck and SUV with a starting price of $24,950. The vehicle features a 205-mile battery range, which is lower than competitors but designed to prioritize affordability and daily use.
The new Slate Truck, an electric pickup starting at $24,950, is currently only available for purchase in the United States, with preorders open and deliveries expected in late 2026. This US-centric approach simplifies initial rollout for the young automaker but excludes international markets like Canada, where tariffs and regulations would increase costs and complexity.
The Jeff Bezos-backed EV startup Slate Truck is offering a minimalist electric pickup truck starting at $24,950, which relies on drivers using their own smartphones or tablets for infotainment. This approach allows Slate to offer the vehicle as the most affordable EV pickup on the market, with various add-ons available for customization.