Introduction
The electric vehicle market is often associated with high price tags, luxury design, and tech-loaded interiors. But what if an EV existed that challenged all those expectations — built not for show but for utility, work, affordability, and simplicity? That’s exactly what the Slate Electric Truck brings to the table — a $20,000 electric pickup that’s minimalistic, modular, and American-made.
With demand surging for low-cost EV trucks for small business use, farming, urban transport, and delivery, the Slate EV pickup is hitting the market at just the right time — and it’s backed by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos through Re:Build Manufacturing. Whether you’re a rural contractor, eco-conscious gig worker, or just someone looking for a basic electric utility truck, the Slate EV deserves a closer look.
Why the Slate Truck is a Game Changer
A New Class of Electric Trucks
Forget high-priced electric trucks like the Tesla Cybertruck, Rivian R1T, or Ford F-150 Lightning. The Slate Truck is built for function over flash — designed for people who want a reliable electric vehicle without the luxury markup.
Key talking points:
- Starting price of $20,000 – cheaper than most used EVs
- Built in the USA – Made in Indiana with domestic manufacturing
- Backed by billion-dollar funding – including Jeff Bezos
- Highly customizable – Over 100 add-ons and configurations
- Perfect for small business, agriculture, and delivery use\
Slate EV Truck Key Specs and Features
Let’s break down the technical specifications of the Slate pickup to understand what’s under the hood.
Performance
- Single-motor RWD delivering 201 horsepower
- 150 kW permanent magnet electric motor
- Payload capacity of 1,430 lbs — ideal for small business and work fleets
- Towing capacity of 1,000 lbs — suitable for light-duty trailers
- Top speed: Limited for safety and energy efficiency
Battery Options & Range
- 52.7 kWh battery with ~150-mile range
- 84.3 kWh battery with ~240-mile range
- DC fast charging up to 120 kW
- AC charging supported at 11 kW
- NACS (Tesla) charging compatibility
Slate Electric Truck Detailed Dimensions
| Specification | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Length | 175 inches (approx. 14.6 feet) |
| Width (without mirrors) | ~70 inches (approx. 5.8 feet) |
| Height | ~65 inches (approx. 5.4 feet) |
| Wheelbase | ~112 inches |
| Ground Clearance | ~8 inches |
| Truck Bed Length | 5 feet |
| Cargo Bed Width | 49–52 inches (between wheel wells) |
| Curb Weight | ~3,600–3,800 lbs (varies by battery) |
| Payload Capacity | 1,430 lbs |
| Seating Capacity | 2 adults (initial version) |
Minimalist Design That Makes Sense
The Slate EV pickup removes unnecessary costs. There’s no fancy touchscreen, no expensive infotainment, and no automatic climate control. Instead, it offers:
- Phone mount dock instead of built-in infotainment
- Manual window cranks (reduces failure points)
- Physical knobs for climate settings
- Unpainted body panels (made from durable polypropylene)
These features reduce manufacturing costs while improving long-term durability — making it ideal for fleet operators, rural users, and price-sensitive buyers.
Modular Add-Ons & Accessories
One of the biggest appeals of the Slate truck is its modular architecture. It’s designed to be customized like a LEGO set — allowing buyers to change body styles based on their use case.
Available Configurations (Coming in 2026–27):
- 2-door pickup
- 4-door family SUV
- Commercial van setup
- Fastback electric crossover
- Custom utility racks
- Camper shells, roof tents, and tool boxes
These kits will be sold separately (~$5,000 range) and install easily with factory support or DIY instructions from the upcoming Slate University and “Builder’s Book.”
Conclusion: Is the Slate Truck Worth It?
If you’ve been holding off on switching to electric because EVs were too expensive, too flashy, or too complicated — the Slate Truck is your answer. It’s not about bells and whistles. It’s about affordable, functional, sustainable driving — with the flexibility to make the vehicle your own.
The $20K electric pickup is more than a headline — it’s a new category of vehicles built for the rest of us. Preorders are live now for just $50. If you want to be among the first to own a game-changing electric work truck, don’t wait.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Slate Electric Pickup Truck
💰 How much does the Slate Electric Truck cost?
The Slate EV pickup truck starts at $20,000 for the base model with a 150-mile range. The higher-range version (240 miles) is expected to cost around $25,000–$27,000 depending on the battery size and options. Modular add-ons like SUV kits or camper shells will be sold separately starting from $4,000–$6,000.
🚚 What is the range of the Slate Truck?
There are two battery options available:
- 52.7 kWh battery: ~150 miles of range
- 84.3 kWh battery: ~240 miles of range
Both versions support DC fast charging and Tesla Supercharger (NACS) compatibility.
🔋 Can I charge the Slate Truck at Tesla Superchargers?
Yes, the Slate Truck will use the North American Charging Standard (NACS), allowing it to charge at Tesla Supercharger stations. It also supports fast DC charging up to 120 kW and Level 2 AC charging at home or work.
🔧 What features are included in the $20,000 base model?
The base model is designed for utility and minimalism, and includes:
- 201 hp rear-wheel-drive electric motor
- Manual windows and locks
- Phone mount instead of infotainment
- Durable plastic exterior panels
- 5-foot truck bed
- 1,430 lbs payload capacity
- Optional A/C and heater
📦 Can I upgrade the truck later?
Yes. The Slate Truck is fully modular. You can add:
- A larger battery pack
- SUV cabin conversion
- Van or delivery body kits
- Roof racks, cargo boxes, bed covers
- Interior utility upgrades
These kits can be purchased later and installed easily, either by certified mechanics or yourself via Slate Builder’s Guide.
🛠️ Who is the Slate Truck built for?
The Slate Truck is ideal for:
- Small businesses and tradespeople
- Farmers and rural drivers
- Delivery and gig economy workers
- EV fleet operators
- Budget-conscious EV buyers
- Minimalist drivers who want less tech and more function
🏭 Where is the Slate Truck made?
The Slate Electric Truck is designed and manufactured in Indiana, USA, by Slate Auto under Re:Build Manufacturing. It is proudly American-made and backed by Jeff Bezos-funded initiatives.
📅 When will the Slate Truck be available?
- Preorders opened in April 2025
- Production begins in late 2026
- First deliveries expected in early 2027
You can reserve your Slate Truck now for just $50 on the company’s official website.
🧊 Does the Slate Truck have heating and air conditioning?
Yes, but they are optional add-ons to keep costs low. Basic ventilation is standard, and buyers can add climate control systems as needed.
🧼 Is the exterior painted?
No. To save cost and improve durability, the truck uses unpainted polypropylene body panels, which are scratch-resistant and easy to replace. This also makes the vehicle ideal for commercial use and off-road conditions.
🛻 How big is the Slate Truck?
- Overall length: 175 inches (shorter than a Toyota Tacoma)
- Truck bed: 5 feet long
- Cabin: 2-door initially, with 4-door SUV versions in the future
