A new American electric vehicle startup, Slate Auto, has emerged with a unique approach that sets it apart from other EV manufacturers, particularly Tesla. This startup is focused on affordability, customization, and a more analog experience, with features like manual windows and no main infotainment screen, and it even allows the vehicle to transform into different forms.

During its debut event in Long Beach, California, Slate Auto revealed that its first trucks will be available to customers for under $20,000, including the federal EV tax credit, by the end of 2026. This announcement comes shortly after details about the company’s plans were made public, including its intention to manufacture its trucks in Indiana and its backing by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.

According to Jeremy Snyder, chief commercial officer, the auto industry’s focus on autonomy and technology has driven prices to unaffordable levels for most Americans. Slate Auto aims to change this by offering an affordable vehicle that has long been promised but never delivered, as stated by CEO Chris Barman.

The base model of Slate’s truck will have a range of 150 miles from a 52.7kWh battery pack, powering a single 150kW motor. A larger battery pack option will be available for those seeking about 240 miles of range. The truck features a five-foot bed, 17-inch wheels, and a projected 1,400-pound payload capacity with a 1,000-pound towing capacity.

The Specs

Although Slate Auto has not disclosed the exact price of its truck, it has confirmed that it will start under $20,000 after the federal tax credit. Interested buyers can reserve a spot on the company’s website with a $50 refundable deposit.

The base version of the truck comes with a range of 150 miles from a 52.7kWh battery pack and features a single 150kW motor. For those seeking more range, a larger battery pack option is available, providing approximately 240 miles of range. The truck also features a North American Charging Standard port for charging.

Other key specifications include 17-inch wheels, a five-foot bed, and a projected 1,400-pound payload capacity with a 1,000-pound towing capacity. The truck also has a front trunk with 7 cubic feet of storage space, which includes a drain for convenience.

Custom… everything

Slate Auto is deeply committed to customization, offering over 100 accessories for buyers to personalize their trucks. The company has also curated starter packs for those who find the options overwhelming. Additionally, the truck does not come painted, instead, Slate Auto encourages buyers to use wrap kits, which can be purchased directly from the company or installed by authorized partners.

This approach allows buyers to personalize their vehicles while also reducing costs for Slate Auto, as it eliminates the need for a paint shop at its factory. The company is also offering the option for buyers to name their car and purchase an embossed wrap for the tailgate, further emphasizing the personalization aspect.

Buckle up

The road to success for American automotive startups is littered with failures, including Canoo, Fisker, and Lordstown Motors, which have all filed for bankruptcy. However, Slate Auto is taking a unique approach by focusing on a low-cost EV first and supplementing its business with revenue from customization options.

With deep-pocketed backers, including Jeff Bezos and Mark Walter, Slate Auto has raised over $111 million and hired nearly 400 employees to achieve its ambitious goals. Despite the volatile market conditions, the company remains focused on domestic manufacturing, which may help insulate it from some of the challenges facing other startups and established automakers.

As CEO Chris Barman stated, “We believe vehicles should be affordable and desirable,” and Slate Auto’s truck is designed to be a vehicle that people will love and be proud to own. With its unique approach to customization and affordability, Slate Auto is poised to make a significant impact in the EV market.