Slate Auto has finally put numbers behind its promise of building an affordable electric vehicle (EV), announcing that its compact pickup will start at $24,950 in the U.S., while the SUV version will carry a starting price of $29,950.
The startup, founded in 2022, says the first customer deliveries are scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2026. According to the company, interest has already been strong.
“More than 180,000 reservation holders have told us they’re ready for a vehicle that’s affordable, reliable, and built around their lives,” said Slate CEO Peter Faricy.
Unlike most EVs on the market, Slate’s approach focuses on simplicity and customization. The base truck comes without painted body panels, allowing owners to choose from more than 100 wrap colors. Wrap kits begin at US$499.99, with custom colors and designs available for up to US$1,599 before installation.
A Slate Truck is $24,950. Because America asked for an affordable new truck.
— Slate Auto (@slateauto) June 24, 2026
Pricing excludes taxes, title, license, registration, governmental fees, destination charges, documentation fees, and any optional equipment. State and local incentives may also be available. pic.twitter.com/WN6CZG5H14
Small dimensions, practical capability
Newly released specifications show the truck measuring just 174.6 inches long, making it considerably smaller than most pickups currently on sale. Despite its compact footprint, it offers a payload capacity of up to 1,550 pounds and a towing rating of 2,000 pounds.
Power comes from a rear-mounted single motor producing 135 kW (181 horsepower) and 264 Nm of torque. The truck uses a 63 kWh usable LFP battery pack and delivers an estimated 205 miles (330 km) of range. Performance is modest, with a 0-60 mph time of 8.0 seconds and a top speed of 90 mph (145 km/h).
Charging is handled through Tesla’s NACS connector, with an 11 kW onboard charger and DC fast charging speeds up to 120 kW, allowing the battery to charge from 20% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes.
Slate says the battery and powertrain will be covered by a 10-year, 110,000-mile warranty.
Accessories instead of standard equipment
The main reason Slate is able to offer the truck at such a low price is because of what the base model lacks. The entry-level truck doesn’t include traditional infotainment, speakers, and power windows, instead relying on optional accessories and customer customization.
The company plans to offer more than 200 accessories at launch, with over 80% priced below US$500. Buyers will be able to add items ranging from roof racks and stereos to seat covers and lighting accessories, and even a door armrest for US$50.
Slate will be bypassing the traditional dealership model and sell directly to consumers, like Tesla and other EV makers. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in late 2026 from the company’s factory in Warsaw, Indiana. While there has been strong interest in Canada, the company has stated that it is initially focusing on the U.S. market, with no immediate plans to offer the vehicle north of the border.
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