We really think enthusiasts are going to be excited about Slate, Slate CEO Chris Barman, says.
Owners can upgrade their Blanks with wraps and more.
In a dramatic moment during the unveiling, Barman demonstrated one of the most striking upgrades: an SUV kit that can transform the truck into a five-passenger sport-utility vehicle, complete with a roll cage, rear seats, and airbags. Within about an hour, and using a modular accessory package, the truck was converted into a gleaming blue SUV before an audience of employees, investors, and early fans.
The audience responded with cheers and applause when Barman asked how many had already placed an order.
All accessories — including the SUV conversion kit — are designed for easy, do-it-yourself installation, though professional services will be available for those who prefer assistance. Slate hopes this modular approach will ignite a new wave of car culture, inspiring a younger generation to take pride in customizing and maintaining their own vehicles.
“This is about pride of ownership,” Barman said. “It’s about making the vehicle an extension of your personality.”
The Slate Truck is available for preorder with a $50 refundable deposit. The company’s two-year-long secrecy campaign, which many in attendance marveled at, has fueled speculation about Slate’s ambitions — not least because “Slate” is, as some pointed out, an anagram of “Tesla.”
With minimalist appearance, the Slate Truck features a 2.7 kWh battery pack paired with a 201-horsepower electric motor powering the rear wheels. Designed for a target range of 150 miles, it can fully recharge overnight using a standard household outlet. ADAS features include Automatic Emergency Braking and Forward Collision Warning.
Rather than relying on a bulky, fast-aging infotainment system, the Slate Truck offers a another solution: a streamlined mount designed to hold a smartphone or tablet, paired with a dock for a portable Bluetooth speaker. Essential comforts like heating and air conditioning come standard.
By letting drivers bring the technology they already use. Slate ensures that the vehicle’s features stay current for years to come — because the latest updates will always be just a download away.
Unlike many rivals, Slate promises a straightforward buying process with minimal customization complexity: three trims, two battery options, and a handful of packages. Preorders are open now, with deliveries expected to begin in early 2026.
Slate is located in Novi Michigan with some offices in Long Beach, California.
An ad calls Slate the Mr. Potato head of SUVs and ends with the quote, “We built it–You make it.”