Slate Automotive, a new American EV startup, has just introduced its first vehicle: a radical minimalist electric car that can convert into an SUV with five seats. The EV, which was referred to as the “empty slate”, made his debut this week and immediately turned not only because of its versatility, but also because of the incredibly low price – and started under 20,000 US dollars after federal incentives.
In contrast to Tesla and Lucid, which were launched with high -priced luxury models, Slate wants to turn the model around: starting cheaply, scaling.
At its core, the Slate Truck is an utilitarian electropicup with two seats for simplicity and affordability. But what it distinguishes is its transformative potential. Thanks to a modular accessory system, the truck can be improved over time – including a kit that adds a back seat, a roller cage, airbags and SUV body cladding. This means that buyers can start with a minimalist pick-up and develop them into a family-friendly SUV-geders themselves or through Slate's growing network of service partners.
The adaptation is of central importance for Slate's vision. At the start, the owners can choose from over 100 accessories that range from vinyl wraps and bluetooth-enabled audio systems to larger battery and off-road upgrades. The company encourages a DIY approach that offers tools and tutorials via “Slate University” to enable users to change and maintain their own vehicles.
With the truck, a 52.7 kWh battery for up to 150 miles or an optional 84.3 kWh pack is 240 miles. Rapid not functions and Teslas NACS connection are standard. The vehicle is in the back and delivers around 200 hp gene for urban commuting and easy means of transport.
What enables the low price is slate's stripped -down production. There is no paint shop, no stamps and only one equipment variant – everything else is modular. The vehicle has steel wheels, crank windows and a robust plastic body that looks beaten and still looks good. It is a rejection of the technically saturated, inexpensive vehicles that dominate today's market.
Despite the minimalist specifications, Slate does not scold about security. The truck is designed in such a way that it is fulfilled the top crash test ratings and is equipped with up to eight airbags, active emergency braking and the forward collision warning.
The support of this ambitious approach is significant support in investors – including the founder and CEO of Amazon, Jeff Bezos. This support, combined with a simplified production model, positions the slate that will quickly be scaled after the start of production in 2026.
The reservations are now open for $ 50 at Slate.Auto. The deliveries are expected at the end of 2026. Whether Americans are ready for a rounded, formal EV, but the bet of slate on affordability and adaptation could make it one of the most disturbing entries on the EV market.
