Could This Be the Long-Awaited Truck in Question?
Introducing the Slate Pickup, a forthcoming electric pickup truck designed with affordability and customizability at its core. Expected to start at an estimated price of under $28,000 USD, with potential post-tax incentive prices dipping below $20,000, the Slate Pickup is slated for release in 2026[1][2].
The Slate Pickup boasts a minimalist design, eschewing an infotainment system and touch screen controls for physical climate controls and manually operated windows, dialling back to an earlier era of automotive design. The truck will be available in a standard unpainted grey polypropylene exterior, with vinyl wrap kits available for color customization[2][5].
The vehicle's powertrain consists of a single rear-mounted motor generating 201 horsepower, with two battery size options: a 52.7 kWh battery offering a range of 150 miles, and an 84.3 kWh battery capable of 240 miles[2][5]. Fast charging is also an option, capable of achieving 80% capacity in under 30 minutes at 120 kW[5].
Customization options abound, with over 100 accessories available for either professional or DIY installation, including a conversion kit to turn the truck into an SUV[5]. To aid owners in maintaining their vehicles, Slate plans to develop a "Slate University" app that will walk users through the self-service maintenance process[2][5].
While the Slate Pickup's production remains an unrealized promise, it is rumored that Jeff Bezos may invest in the project, potentially paving the way for mass-production[3]. For those interested in securing a preorder, the Slate Motors website offers the opportunity for a $50 USD deposit[2].
With the focus on affordability and customization, the Slate Pickup poses an intriguing proposition as a modern take on the classic utility vehicle. As Slate continues to work towards offering a genuine Volkswagen-esque affordable electric vehicle option for 21st-century America[3], we invite you to share your thoughts in the comments.
Sources:[1] "Slate Motors Co., Ltd." Crunchbase, http://www.crunchbase.com/organization/slate-motors-co-ltd[2] "Slate Motors: The People's Truck" Slate Motors, https://www.slatemotors.com/[3] "Slate Pickup: A Truck That's Easily Modified and Priced Right" CNET, https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/slate-pickup-truck-ev-diy-mazda-pickup-truck/[4] "Slate Truck Review and Price" Consumer Reports,https://www.consumerreports.org/car-reviews/2026-slate-truck-review/[5] "Slate Motors' DIY Electric Truck" Electrek, https://electrek.co/2022/03/18/slate-motors-diy-electric-truck/
During the Slate Motors' DIY electric truck project, owners might find interest in customizing their vehicles beyond the offered accessories by installing a traditional radio system, contributing to the vintage vibe of the Slate Pickup. As the Slate University app is developed to walk users through self-service maintenance processes, one might also envision a similar guide to help install a DIY radio system.
