In a bold move to reshape the future of budget-friendly trucks, Slate Auto has unveiled its first electric pickup, simply called The Truck, during an event in Los Angeles. Backed partially by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, this compact yet practical EV aims to launch at an astonishing starting price under 20,000 dollars after federal incentives. Designed to restore purchasing power to drivers often ignored by the auto industry, The Truck combines straightforward engineering with surprising functionality, signaling a fresh approach to personal transportation.
Slate Auto’s new Truck embraces minimalism to an extreme, focusing on functionality and affordability without sacrificing key features. Manufactured entirely in the United States, this two-door, two-seater EV will be offered in a single configuration with a single Slate Gray color. Instead of multiple trim levels, buyers will have access to a wide range of customizable accessories, including a five-seat conversion kit with added airbags and a classic Range Rover-style rear cap.
Inside, the dashboard carries the same no-frills philosophy: no built-in infotainment screen, just a universal mount for smartphones or tablets and optional speakers. Even the windows are crank-operated, a rarity in today’s auto market. Despite its simplicity, Slate Auto prioritizes safety, equipping every model with emergency braking and forward collision warning systems, even for the upgraded SUV-like versions. With a total length of 4.43 meters and a rear bed measuring about 1.52 meters, The Truck blends compact dimensions with practical cargo solutions.
The Truck is powered by a single electric motor driving the rear wheels, delivering 201 horsepower and 400 Newton-meters of torque. Customers can choose between two battery options: a 52.7 kilowatt-hour standard battery offering a range of approximately 241 kilometers, or an 84.3 kilowatt-hour extended battery pushing the range to about 386 kilometers.
Acceleration is smooth, with the EV reaching 100 kilometers per hour in roughly 8 seconds and achieving a top speed of 145 kilometers per hour. It promises durability and comfort and is built with a simple yet rugged suspension setup – MacPherson struts in the front and a De Dion rear axle similar to the Mercedes G-Class. Riding on 17-inch steel wheels with 245/65 tires, The Truck targets practicality over flash. Slate Auto plans direct-to-customer sales, bypassing dealerships entirely to cut costs further and streamline ownership, although production challenges still lie ahead.
Started my career in Automotive Journalism in 2015. Even though I'm a pharmacist, hanging around cars all the time has created a passion for the automotive industry since day 1.