FYI: Slate aims to revolutionize the electric vehicle market with a budget-friendly, customizable pickup truck set to launch in late 2026.
As an automotive enthusiast and editor at Automotive.fyi, I have the opportunity to experience many new electric vehicles. Often, I find myself thinking, "I could get used to this!"—until I remember my financial reality. High-end models like the $95,000 Lucid Gravity, exceptional though they are, remain out of reach for many. That’s why the recent unveiling by Slate, a newcomer in the electric vehicle industry, grabbed my attention.
Slate’s Bold Entry with a Simplified EV
On Thursday evening, Slate unveiled plans for a groundbreaking, no-frills electric pickup truck. Scheduled to hit the market by the end of 2026, this vehicle aims to be both affordable and adaptable. Designed with a minimalist approach, it features crank windows, seats two, omits the typical touchscreen, and targets a price under $20,000 after federal incentives—about a third of the standard cost for new electric vehicles in today’s market.
A Modular Approach to EVs
An exciting aspect of Slate’s design is its potential for customization. The pickup truck can be easily modified with a kit to transform it into a five-seat SUV, appealing to a variety of consumer needs and preferences. This flexibility makes Slate’s offering not just a vehicle, but a platform for innovation and personalization.
My in-person exploration of the Slate model left me with several thoughts about its value, its unique customization features, and its viability as a low-tech electric vehicle solution for 2025 and beyond. These topics and more are covered in-depth in this week’s episode of The Plugged-In Podcast, where my colleague Suvrat and I dive into the details.
Industry Updates and Projections
Apart from Slate, this week’s discussions also include significant updates from CATL, a major player in battery technology, as well as analysis on Tesla’s challenging first quarter. The conversation explores whether Tesla can recover its footing through the release of more affordable models and speculates on future market offerings from the company.
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Join Us in the Conversation
We’re eager to address listener queries about electric vehicles, purchasing tips, and future trends in transportation. For any burning questions or insights you’d like to share, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at tips@automotive.fyi, or follow us on Twitter @automotivefyi.
Conclusion
In a rapidly evolving automotive landscape, Slate’s ambitious initiative to deliver a budget-friendly electric pickup stands out as a bold step forward. With its innovative design and accessible price point, it promises to open up new possibilities for a broader range of drivers. Stay tuned for more insights and updates as we continue to explore this exciting development in the EV market.
William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi
