Developed by American startup Slate Auto, is offering minimalist electric pickup is designed to bring EV ownership within reach for more consumers—without sacrificing utility or personalization.
The company plans to launch the Slate Truck with a base price under $28,000, backed by investors including Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, Slate Auto is betting that affordability, modularity, and domestic production will be the keys to success in an increasingly crowded EV marketplace.
Service and Support Through RepairPal
In a first for the industry, Slate Auto will partner with RepairPal’s nationwide network of certified service centers to provide maintenance, customization, and warranty work.
“Slate’s OEM partnership with RepairPal’s nationwide network of service centers will give Slate customers peace of mind, while empowering independent service shops to provide accessorization and service,” said Jeremy Snyder, Slate’s Chief Commercial Officer.
RepairPal technicians will receive training in Slate-specific procedures, including high-voltage electrical and battery repair. Over 200 RepairPal locations across the U.S. are already certified for EV service, with more expected as Slate trucks hit the road.
This model allows customers to schedule service close to home—typically within 100 miles—while keeping the DIY ethos alive. For owners who prefer professional installation, RepairPal shops will also offer accessory installation and customization services.
Slate drivers will be able to charge conveniently using Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network thanks to the truck’s standard NACS port located on the driver’s side rear.
A “Blank Slate” Design Philosophy
True to its name, the Slate Truck is conceived as a blank canvas. The base model comes with manual crank windows, fabric armrests, physical climate controls, and no built-in infotainment system. Instead, drivers can use their own devices—a smartphone mount comes standard, with an optional tablet mount available.
The exterior follows the same utilitarian approach, featuring an unpainted gray polypropylene shell that can be personalized with vinyl wraps rather than traditional paint. This simplicity keeps manufacturing costs low while giving owners creative control. Slate’s minimalist design isn’t about cutting corners—it’s about giving buyers the freedom to tailor the vehicle to their lifestyle.
Performance and Range
Under the hood, the Slate Truck is powered by a single rear-mounted electric motor generating 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. Buyers can choose between two battery options: a 52.7 kWh pack for about 150 miles of range, or an 84.3 kWh pack extending that to roughly 240 miles. Charging supports 11 kW AC and 120 kW DC fast charging via a North American Charging Standard (NACS) connector.
While the numbers don’t rival premium models from Rivian or Tesla, Slate’s mission is practicality over performance—focusing on efficiency, repairability, and low cost of ownership.
Customization and Modularity
Slate’s modular approach allows owners to transform the truck into different configurations using factory or aftermarket kits. The base two-door pickup can be converted into a three-door, five-seat SUV with either a traditional boxy roofline or a fastback silhouette.
The company actively supports do-it-yourself customization, encouraging owners to build and share 3D-printed accessories. This open-source philosophy is central to Slate’s identity—fostering a community of drivers who can modify and maintain their vehicles on their own terms.
Manufacturing and Jobs
Production is slated to begin in late 2026 at a 1.4 million-square-foot facility in Warsaw, Indiana. The plant, a repurposed printing factory, will employ around 2,000 workers and target an annual output of 150,000 units. By sourcing parts and materials domestically, Slate aims to support U.S. suppliers and reduce exposure to global supply chain disruptions.
The Future of Affordable EVs
By emphasizing affordability, customization, and local production, Slate Auto is taking a fresh approach in a segment long dominated by luxury models. Its commitment to simplicity—both in design and in ownership—represents a return to fundamentals.
As production nears, the Slate Truck could redefine expectations for what an electric pickup can be: not a high-tech status symbol, but a practical, personal, and attainable tool for everyday life.