Bezos-Backed Slate Auto Debuts Affordable, Customizable EV Pickup
Slate Auto, a new American electric vehicle startup backed by Jeff Bezos, has unveiled its first vehicle: an analog, customizable EV pickup truck designed to be an affordable alternative to high-tech models like Tesla.
Revealed at an event in Long Beach, California, the truck boasts a sub-$20,000 price tag (after the federal EV tax credit) and is expected to ship by the end of 2026. It features manual windows, no main infotainment screen, and comes unpainted, emphasizing customization through wraps and accessories.
The truck can even transform from a two-seater pickup to a five-seater SUV.
Challenging the Industry Status Quo
The auto industry has been so focused on autonomy and technology in the vehicle, it’s driven prices to a place that most Americans simply can’t afford. But we’re here to change that.
— Jeremy Snyder, Chief Commercial Officer, Slate Auto
We are building the affordable vehicle that has long been promised but never been delivered.
— Chris Barman, CEO, Slate Auto
The Specs
The base model offers a 150-mile range with a 52.7kWh battery pack and a single 150kW motor. A larger battery pack option provides around 240 miles of range. Charging is via the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port. The truck features 17-inch wheels, a five-foot bed, a 1,400-pound payload capacity, a 1,000-pound towing capacity, and a 7 cubic-foot frunk.
Custom—Everything
Slate Auto is committed to customization. With over 100 accessories available at launch, buyers can personalize their trucks. "Starter packs" offer curated accessory bundles. The unpainted body encourages customization through wraps, which Slate will sell in DIY kits.
This approach allows for a lower base price and avoids the costs and regulations associated with a paint shop.
Customers can even name their trucks, with embossed tailgate wraps available. Slate refers to the truck as the "Blank Slate."
Customization also represents a key revenue stream for the company.
DIY installation is encouraged, with "Slate University" providing how-to resources. Authorized partners will offer professional installation.
Transformations to SUV form factors are also possible and reversible without requiring mechanical expertise.
Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, airbags, and a backup camera.
A Risky but Ambitious Venture
Slate Auto's approach contrasts with other EV startups. Focusing on affordability and customization, they aim to achieve profitability through add-on sales. Backed by significant funding (over $111 million) from investors like Jeff Bezos and Mark Walter, the company has hired nearly 400 employees and is actively recruiting.
Despite launching in a volatile market, Slate Auto's focus on domestic manufacturing may provide some insulation from industry turmoil.
We believe vehicles should be affordable and desirable. The Blank Slate is a vehicle people are actually going to love and be proud to own.
— Chris Barman, CEO, Slate Auto
