Affordable EV Truck

Simple Electric Trucks

In a world where electric vehicles often come with hefty price tags and luxurious features, Slate Auto has taken a different route altogether. Introducing the Slate Truck: a straightforward, no-frills electric pickup that’s aiming to win over the masses with its starting price of just under $27,500. Toss in the federal EV tax credit, and that price can drop to around $20,000. This little gem is made right in the heart of the Midwest and has Amazon founder Jeff Bezos backing it, setting its sights on practicality and affordability.

Slate calls it “radically simple,” and they truly deliver on that promise. Say goodbye to those flashy infotainment systems and unnecessary gadgets. This truck is stripped down to the bare essentials: steel wheels, composite body panels, and a simple dock for a smartphone. It’s compact too, just about 174.6 inches in length, featuring two seats, a five-foot bed, and a 7-cubic-foot frunk up front.

Utility Over Flash

While Tesla’s Cybertruck swoops in with all its futuristic flair, the Slate Truck prefers a more utilitarian path. It’s no wonder TechCrunch has nicknamed it the “anti-Tesla.” The whole idea here is about removing the non-essentials to make electric truck ownership much more attainable financially. Despite its simplicity, it has crucial safety features like cruise control, power locks, and a forward-collision warning system with emergency braking.

Even though it may not shine in glitz, the Slate Truck offers undeniable flexibility. Under the hood, it’s powered by a 201-horsepower motor on the rear axle, pushing this 3,600-pound truck from zero to 60 in about 8 seconds. It’s a rear-wheel drive that doesn’t offer a dual-motor option yet. The truck carries a 47-kWh battery offering around 150 miles of range, with an optional upgrade to a 75-kWh battery pack that enhances the range to 240 miles.

Customize It

One of Slate’s key attractions is the ability to customize. At launch, more than 100 accessories can transform this basic vehicle into a daily driver or even morph it into a five-seat SUV. The SUV conversion kit adds a back bench, roof panel, airbags, and a roll bar. Buyers can also choose lift or lowering kits, alloy wheels, and vinyl wraps to tailor the truck to their liking.

While much of the installation can be tackled by DIY enthusiasts, Slate plans to offer a network of approved installers to assist those less keen on getting their hands dirty. Dubbed by Car and Driver as the “Burger King of trucks” — for its “have it your way” flexibility — it appeals to folks who might find themselves priced out of the pricey EV market yet want a product they can uniquely personalize.

Looking Ahead

The first batch of Slate Trucks is scheduled for delivery in late 2026. Despite this timeline, the modest $50 refundable reservation fee is already sparking interest. With ongoing federal subsidies and possible state incentives, this truck could become an even more enticing choice, especially in states like Colorado where it might go for as low as $16,500.

It’s rare to see a brand-new vehicle—let alone an EV or a pickup—come in at such an accessible price. The Slate Truck offers a compelling option for those willing to trade high-tech features for pure, practical utility. Whether or not it takes off, Slate’s bet on simplicity and modularity is a refreshing alternative in a market obsessed with luxury and trendiness.