Slate Truck Electric Pickup Truck: Price, Specs & 2026 Release

The Slate Truck flips the electric vehicle script—it’s a sub-$25,000 modular compact pickup that converts into a five-seat SUV via bolt-on panels, targeting buyers who want affordable basics over luxury features. Slate Auto, the startup behind it, revealed the production-intent prototype on April 24, 2025, with deliveries scheduled to begin in late 2026.

Price: Sub-$25,000 | Release: 2026 | Type: Modular 2-door compact pickup | Manufacturer: Slate Auto | Key Feature: Convertible to SUV

How much does a Slate EV truck cost?

Slate Auto targets a base price in the mid-$20,000s before federal EV incentives, with some sources citing approximately $27,500 MSRP. The $50 reservation fee is fully refundable. After the federal $7,500 EV tax credit, the effective out-of-pocket cost could fall below $20,000 for qualifying buyers, though final pricing remains subject to change as production approaches.

US pricing details

The company sells direct-to-consumer through an online configurator, avoiding franchise dealerships to keep costs down. This model means buyers configure and order entirely online, with third-party service shops handling maintenance rather than a proprietary dealer network.

Who makes the Slate Truck?

Slate Auto, a California-based startup, designed and manufactures the Slate Truck. The company has attracted backing from Jeff Bezos and operates from a retooled factory in Warsaw, Indiana. Head of design Tisha Johnson describes the philosophy as deliberately straightforward, prioritizing simplicity over complexity.

Slate Auto overview

“The design is simple and deliberately straightforward,” said Tisha Johnson, Head of design at Slate Auto. Slate’s modular EV might as well be a rolling Lego kit, noted Car and Driver’s review, highlighting how the company built its entire business model around customization and cost reduction.

Where is the Slate Truck manufactured?

Production takes place at Slate Auto’s retooled factory in Warsaw, Indiana, with US-focused sourcing for components. The single factory configuration minimizes manufacturing complexity and costs, with no paint shop on site—vehicles leave the factory designed for vinyl wraps rather than traditional paint.

Manufacturing location

Batteries come from SK On using NMC chemistry with liquid cooling. The company demonstrated a prototype to Jay Leno at the Warsaw facility, showcasing the manufacturing process and design philosophy behind the modular approach.

What is the Slate Truck release date?

Slate Auto revealed the production-intent model on April 24, 2025, at a launch event in Long Beach, California. Production is scheduled to begin in Q4 2026, with customer deliveries following shortly after in late 2026. The company already accepts $50 reservations.

Reveal and launch timeline

• April 24, 2025: Model revealed at launch event in Long Beach, California Automotive Fleet
• Pre-2026: Prototype reviewed by Jay Leno in Warsaw, Indiana Jay Leno’s Garage
• Q4 2026: Production start targeted Automotive Fleet
• Late 2026: Deliveries begin Car and Driver
• 2027: Model year references appear in marketing materials

What is the Slate Truck range and specs?

The Slate Truck offers two battery options: 52.7 kWh standard delivering approximately 150 miles of range, and an 84.3 kWh optional pack extending range to approximately 240 miles. A single rear motor produces 201 horsepower, enabling 0-60 mph in roughly 8 seconds with a top speed around 90 mph. Towing capacity reaches approximately 1,000 lbs while payload capacity tops 1,400 lbs.

Range

Range estimates stem from early testing figures; EPA certification for final numbers remains pending. The smaller battery suits urban and suburban buyers who primarily need short commutes, while the larger pack targets highway-focused drivers needing extended range for longer trips.

4×4 capability

The Slate Truck launches as rear-wheel drive only with a single rear motor. All-wheel drive variants have not been announced, making this a light-duty recreational vehicle rather than a serious off-road or work truck competitor.

Battery lifespan

SK On supplies NMC lithium-ion batteries with liquid cooling, designed for longevity and consistent performance. While official lifespan warranties remain undisclosed, the battery chemistry and thermal management system suggest durability comparable to other modern EVs.

The specs reflect Slate Auto’s focus on affordability over performance metrics—competitors like the Ford F-150 Lightning offer full-size platforms at $50,000-plus with greater towing capability, but the Slate targets buyers wanting essential EV transportation at a fraction of the cost.

Modular Design and Customization

Slate Auto’s defining feature is a modular design supporting over 100 accessories including vinyl wraps, body panels, and conversion kits. The flat-pack SUV conversion kit transforms the two-seat pickup into a five-seat vehicle with rear seats, roll cage, and airbags, costing approximately $5,000. SUV or fastback configurations become possible through bolt-on panels without permanent modifications.

Charging Infrastructure

The Slate Truck uses the North American Charging Standard (NACS) connector, granting access to Tesla’s Supercharger network alongside other public charging stations. Onboard AC charging supports up to 11 kW, while DC fast charging reaches 120 kW for quick stops on longer journeys.

Right-to-Repair Philosophy

Slate Auto embraces an open-source approach for right-to-repair, enabling DIY warranty repairs through approximately 4,000 independent shops. This strategy breaks from traditional automotive manufacturers who restrict repairs to certified dealerships, potentially lowering long-term ownership costs.

“The design is simple and deliberately straightforward.”

— Tisha Johnson, Head of design, Slate Auto

“Slate’s modular EV might as well be a rolling Lego kit.”

— Car and Driver