Revolutionary Analog EV Pickup Truck Launched by Bezos-Backed Slate Auto: A Bold Alternative to Tesla | TechCrunch

A new electric vehicle (EV) startup has burst onto the scene, and it’s turning heads. Slate Auto, based in the U.S., is different from big players like Tesla.

Slate Auto aims to deliver affordable and straightforward electric trucks, with a price starting under $20,000 after the federal tax credit. Unlike many modern vehicles, these trucks are customizable, analog, and practical. You won’t find a fancy infotainment screen or electric windows here; instead, the vehicles come unpainted and can transform from a two-seater pickup to a five-seater SUV.

The company unveiled its first truck at an event in Long Beach, California, announcing plans to have it available by the end of 2026. Backed by prominent figures, including Jeff Bezos, Slate Auto is looking to fill a gap in the market. "The auto industry has fixed its eyes on high-tech features, leaving many Americans behind in affordability," said Jeremy Snyder, the chief commercial officer. CEO Chris Barman added, "We’re making that affordable vehicle a reality."

Specifications and Customization

While Slate hasn’t pinned down the exact price yet, it promises that the base model will cost less than $20,000. Customers can place a $50 refundable reservation on their website. The standard truck will have a 52.7 kWh battery, offering about 150 miles of range. A larger battery version will extend that to around 240 miles, utilizing the widely accepted North American Charging Standard for charging.

The truck features a five-foot bed, can carry a payload of 1,400 pounds, and has a towing capacity of 1,000 pounds. While this is less than popular models like the Ford F-150, Slate positions its trucks as compact and user-friendly.

Customization is a big selling point for Slate. The company is set to launch with over 100 accessories, allowing customers to personalize their trucks to their liking. They can even wrap their vehicles in different styles—a strategy that reduces manufacturing costs since Slate won’t need a paint shop. Buyers can name their vehicles, which Slate refers to as the "Blank Slate," and purchase wraps to add personality.

Slate’s approach to customization taps into a growing trend. According to a recent survey by JD Power, 75% of consumers desire personalization in their vehicles. This preference indicates that buyers want vehicles that reflect their individual style and needs.

Challenges Ahead

Starting an American automotive company is tough. Many past ventures, like Canoo and Lordstown Motors, have struggled, often led to bankruptcy. Meanwhile, companies like Rivian and Lucid Motors are facing significant financial challenges. Slate is trying a different approach by emphasizing affordability first and leveraging customization for growth.

With over $111 million raised, including support from Bezos and others, Slate is not without resources. The company has about 400 employees and is actively hiring. Focusing on domestic manufacturing may help it navigate some of the industry’s volatility better than others facing supply chain issues.

In a time when EV innovation is crucial, Slate believes it can deliver what consumers want most: a desirable vehicle at a price they can afford. As CEO Barman stated, "We believe vehicles should be affordable and desirable." With its unique take on EVs, Slate Auto is poised to make its mark in the ever-evolving automotive landscape.

To explore more about the potential benefits of electric vehicles, you can check out the U.S. Department of Energy’s website for more insights and data on EV technology and advantages.

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