Modular EV Truck Guarantees Simplicity, Decrease Prices for Fleets & Shoppers – Inexperienced Fleet
“The design is straightforward and intentionally simple,” stated head of design Tisha Johnson. “The Slate truck wanted to be straightforward to get into, drive, and cargo in comparison with anything out there.”
New U.S.-based EV producer Slate unveiled its first automobile — a minimalist, modular electrical pickup — at a launch occasion on April 24, 2025, in Lengthy Seashore, Calif. Slate’s strategy emphasizes affordability, easy design, and user-driven customization, with manufacturing focused to start within the fourth quarter of 2026.
“We’re constructing the reasonably priced automobile that has lengthy been promised however by no means delivered,” stated Chris Barman, CEO of Slate, through the reveal. “Slate exists to place the ability again into the arms of shoppers who’ve been denied this alternative by the auto trade.”
Designed for Customization & Utility
The Slate truck is a two-seat, compact electrical pickup manufactured in a single manufacturing facility configuration, with greater than 100 obtainable equipment. Patrons can customise the truck over time, together with changing it right into a five-seat SUV with a flat-pack accent package that provides a rear seat, roll cage, and airbags.
“The design is straightforward and intentionally simple,” stated head of design Tisha Johnson from the stage. “The Slate Truck wanted to be straightforward to get into, drive, and cargo in comparison with anything out there.”
The automobile is intentionally easy, with crank home windows, metal wheels, primary HVAC controls, a big entrance trunk (frunk), and a five-foot rear cargo mattress with a 1,400-pound payload ranking.
Moderately than integrating a proprietary infotainment system, Slate opted for a common cellphone mount to deliver your personal system.
Simplified Wrapping & Carry-Your-Personal Tech
In a break from conventional automotive design, the truck was developed to be simply wrapped in vinyl, permitting consumers to vary its look with out repainting. Wrap kits are minimize to suit and will be put in DIY or by licensed installers.
Moderately than integrating a proprietary infotainment system, Slate opted for a common cellphone mount and USB energy ports, letting drivers use their current cell units for navigation and media.
Security & Efficiency Targets
Slate’s engineering staff stated the truck is designed to realize a U.S. NCAP five-star crash security ranking, with options together with Energetic Emergency Braking, Ahead Collision Warning, and a backup digital camera.
Powertrain specs embody:
- 52.7-kWh battery normal (150-mile goal vary)
- 84.3-kWh battery optionally available (240-mile goal vary)
- 150-kW rear-wheel drive motor (201 horsepower)
- 0-60 mph in roughly eight seconds
- 11-kW onboard AC charging and 120-kW DC quick charging
Early crash testing signifies the truck is assembly inside security and sturdiness targets.
On the launch occasion, Slate transformed the pickup into an SUV on stage in about an hour.
Direct-to-Purchaser Gross sales Mannequin
Slate plans to fabricate the truck at a retooled manufacturing facility in Indiana, with elements sourcing centered closely inside the U.S. Manufacturing is anticipated to start within the fourth quarter of 2026.
The corporate will promote on to customers, with a web based ordering platform and a community of third-party service suppliers for upkeep and set up help.
Slate initiatives a beginning worth beneath $20,000 after federal incentives, a notable distinction with as we speak’s common new automobile worth of about $50,000. Automobile reservations are actually open through a $50 refundable deposit.
Slate’s management emphasised that the truck is designed to evolve with buyer wants. Equipment — from easy decal kits to full SUV conversions — will be added at buy or later.
Slate is positioning the truck for fleet functions, notably for presidency companies and vocational fleets with short-range each day obligation cycles.
Concentrating on Authorities & Business Fleets
Whereas Slate’s client focus was outstanding through the launch, the corporate can be positioning the truck for fleet functions, notably for presidency companies and vocational fleets with short-range each day obligation cycles.
The Slate Truck’s modularity, low acquisition value, and simplified upkeep wants might attraction to municipalities, utility companies, and campus fleets.
The automobile can be featured on the NAFA Institute & Expo (I&E) in Lengthy Seashore, California, from April 28 to 30.
