Slate: A New Contender within the EV Market
Slate is making its mark as a newcomer within the electrical car (EV) panorama. Not like many startups, it has spent the final two years growing a simple electrical truck that may additionally convert right into a five-seater SUV with a bolt-on package. The corporate showcased working prototypes just lately, a rarity for EV startups, and introduced that costs may begin underneath $20,000 after accounting for EV tax incentives.
This pricing is compelling, particularly on condition that the typical price of a brand new car exceeds this determine. When Slate opened reservations with a $50 refundable deposit, I made a decision to make the leap. Shortly thereafter, their web site launched a configurator filled with varied customization choices, which I eagerly explored.
I opted for a minimalist method. The main focus for me was on a useful truck that does not carry a hefty price ticket. Slate gives quite a few aesthetic modifications, together with completely different grilles, bumpers, fender flares, and inside accents. I selected to maintain the outside inventory, solely altering the colour and wheels.
I chosen a partial wrap referred to as "Snow Canine," which options silver sides and a colour on the higher half—Blue Metal in my case. Slate affords 12 colours, plus the choice to decide on a customized shade. This design alternative superbly evokes a Nineteen Eighties two-tone fashion, which appears to have been the intent.
As an alternative of the usual metal wheels, I opted for 17-inch aluminum rims with all-terrain tires, necessitating the next trip top. Whereas 20-inch wheels can be found, they felt extreme for this mannequin. The accessible choices additionally embrace operating boards, roof racks, completely different taillight kinds, and extra, however I needed to maintain it easy.
Inside, the truck is stripped all the way down to the necessities, missing options generally anticipated in trendy autos, like energy home windows or perhaps a commonplace stereo. My Slate can have a big pill holder for navigation and music, making it straightforward for my eyes to see whereas driving.
Slate affords built-in audio system, however I selected to go along with a Bluetooth speaker holder as an alternative. Fashionable automobile stereo techniques typically overwhelm with too many audio system, and a easy Bluetooth speaker connecting to Spotify fits my wants.
I made a decision to stay with guide crank home windows. Whereas I would be positive with energy home windows if they don’t seem to be prohibitively costly, I admire the simplicity. Inside colour choices enable for a vivid and cheerful environment, and I’ve added a middle console for practicality.
Slate claims there are sufficient decisions to make each truck distinctive. Further SUV bolt-on kits can be found, offering choices for both a sq. or fastback roof and a again seat. Nevertheless, the shortage of listed costs for these options raises issues about whether or not the bottom worth will stay engaging.
The concept of a sub-$20,000 pickup with fundamental options is intriguing. Nevertheless, if customization considerably raises the value to $30,000 whereas retaining these fundamental attributes, the attraction diminishes.
It is essential to notice that pricing would not embrace battery upgrades. The usual mannequin comes with a 52.7-kWh battery, providing an estimated vary of 150 miles, whereas an non-compulsory 84.3-kWh battery extends that to round 240 miles. Given my rural setting, the bigger battery could be preferable, nevertheless it can not escalate the general price too excessive.
As for timelines, Slate goals for a manufacturing launch within the fourth quarter of 2026. We’ll be watching intently for additional updates.
