Slate Autos Debuts Two-Seater, Affordable EV Pickup

In the television business, a slate refers to the informational title card that comes before every recording of the show– just check out this weekend’s Retro Review Marathon for some examples, and stay for the nostalgia. The slate is a signifier that something new is about to start, and perhaps that’s why a newcomer to the EV market has chosen it as their name.

Slate Auto’s “something new” is an all-electric, two-seater pickup truck, currently projected to retail under $20,000 with current federal incentives. This truck, which can also be converted into a five-seater SUV, will be made in America and sold under a direct-to-consumer model (sold online, for example, which is then delivered to your home).

The Slate Truck is a straightforward name, and it starts life as an equally straightforward, bare bones package; though, Slate has touted “over 100 accessories” for customers to choose from to allow ample customization of one’s “Blank Slate.” One such pack is the flat-pack SUV kit as mentioned above, which includes a roll cage, airbags and the all-important rear seat, allowing you to convert your truck into a utility. Perhaps a sign of the auto industry coming full circle, window cranks and physical HVAC knobs are selling points to be boasted here, as are the steel wheels and the lack of a large infotainment screen. Instead, a universal phone mount allows you to prop up and plug in, using your smartphone as the interface if needed; however, a dedicated tablet will be available.

The base powertrain consists of a 52.7-kWh battery pack, supplying power to a rear-mounted 150-kW motor, good for 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft, targeting 150 miles of range. An available 84.3-kWh battery will take range up to 240 miles, and recharges will be accessible through a NACS port, capable of fast charging up to 80% in 20 minutes. Charging up to 100% on a Level 1 AC will take 111 hours, with Level 2 achieving the same result in under 5.

Breaking another norm, a top speed of 90 mph and a 0-60 time estimated at 8 seconds flat won’t deliver the “instant torque” party trick so many EVs deploy, but is practical for many. A max payload of 1,433 lbs. and a max tow rating of 1,000 lbs. isn’t exactly stellar for a pickup truck; but considering the vehicle’s 175-inch length and 109-inch wheelbase, it isn’t exactly a large truck either, flanked by a 5-foot bed, so we suspect buyers using it for local deliveries and hauling, doing light-duty work, or just looking for a pickup that isn’t any larger than they need will benefit from this package the most. We should also note that the Slate Truck’s curb weight is put at 3,602 lbs., about the same as a current Ford Maverick.

The proportions aren’t quite kei truck stature, but the boxy exterior and one-row cab are reminiscent of those tiny imports. Slate says there are three levels of wrapping that can be done, allowing for a broader range of customization, even years after delivery. The Slate Truck will also strive for safety, with up to eight airbags and a number of safety systems, such as emergency braking and forward collision warning.

We’ll keep an eye on the Slate Truck and whatever projects Slate Autos announces.