Electric vehicle startup Slate Auto has announced the launch of its all-electric pickup truck with a starting price of $24,950. The company states this makes it the most affordable electric truck available in the U.S. market.
Pricing and Context
The $24,950 starting price matches a revised target announced last year. The company initially aimed for a price under $20,000 but adjusted after the federal EV tax credit was eliminated.
According to Cox Automotive, the average new vehicle sold for $49,220 in May. Small and midsize pickups averaged $43,044, and new EVs averaged $54,532. The Slate truck is priced below the average used vehicle cost of $26,918. For comparison, the Ford Maverick starts at approximately $30,000, and the Chevrolet Bolt EV at roughly $29,000.
Specifications
Specification Details Base Model "Blank Slate" rear-wheel drive, single motor Battery 65 kWh pack Range 205 miles (a 37% increase from initially stated figures) Tow Rating 2,000 pounds Payload 1,550 pounds 0 to 60 mph 8 seconds Top Speed 90 mph DC Fast Charging 120 kW; 20% to 80% in 30 minutes Home Charging Up to 17 hoursFeatures
The vehicle includes:
- A clip for a smartphone, replacing a touchscreen
- A single exterior color (gray) molded into composite body panels
- Manual window winders
- No additional trim levels or options
Reservations and Availability
Slate claims approximately 180,000 people have placed reservations. Preorders opened with a $300 non-refundable deposit. Existing reservation holders who previously paid $50 can upgrade for an additional $250.
Customers who order within 30 days receive an earlier delivery slot. First deliveries are expected by the end of 2025. Production is scheduled to start in autumn 2026, with deliveries expected in late 2026.
Company Background
Slate was founded in 2022 and is partially backed by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.