Slate's New Low-Priced EV
Originally, the idea for the Slate truck was that it would be about a $20,000 electric vehicle - at that price, it would be noteworthy because that's a full $10,000 less than the cheapest EVs on the market now, specifically the Chevy Volt and the Nissan Leaf.
At the same time, the REO Speedwagon name is being revived. Not the band, the truck from the 1910s – turns out the band that wanted to keep on loving us, borrowed its name from an old work truck, and that company maybe even created the first purpose-built pickup. But the new REO isn’t electric, and because it relies on gasoline and more basic mechanical technology, its price is $21,500, in theory.
Much of this is “in theory” because EV startups have a tendency to disappear faster than a sunny day in winter. Either way, competition and choice almost always benefit consumers and make better, less expensive consumer products.
What’s My Price Again?
Meanwhile, the original $20,000 price for the Slate was going to be accomplished by using taxpayer money. Specifically, the $7,500 taxpayer-funded rebate that most new car buyers got when buying an electric car. Now that the rebate is gone, it's forcing automakers to produce electric cars that compete on an even playing field with other types of vehicles, such as hybrid, gasoline, diesel, and hydrogen.
Slate has all the earmarks of being a real car company that will soon deliver electric pickups and SUVs into the hands of paying customers, taxpayer-funded rebate or not.
Slate says the base price of a slate pickup is $24,950. That's still a good deal, and it's still a little bit less than some of the cheapest electric cars available today from mainstream automakers.
Pickup or SUV
There's also an SUV version that adds a roof over the bed and a foot well and a seat behind the front seats - all slate vehicles are the same basic pickup underneath. There are customization and accessory choices that customers can use to make one of those, such as the 5-passenger SUV, as well as a fastback SUV. The SUV version can also be ordered that way for those who are less DIY inclined.
The base price before accessories and add-ons for the SUV is $29,950. Still a very good deal, but now very close to some of the low-priced vehicles from mainstream automakers. For example, a base-model Toyota BZ electric vehicle costs about $35,000. A base model Nissan Leaf - which has many comfort and convenience features already built in is about $30,000.
Personalization
But these comparisons may be missing the point. It's possible that the Slate EV isn't competing with mainstream electric vehicles. Maybe the success of the slate EV will largely depend on how many people want a highly customizable electric vehicle that looks different and has a clear DIY vibe. Many accessories are priced under $500, and others are still under $250.
These accessories include things like a changeable front grille, wheel trim, light covers, wrap colors, seat covers, a phone holder, and power windows.
I can see this being the perfect LA or South Florida type of car because it has a retro vibe. Many of the body panels can easily be removed and customized. Because of its boxy look, it actually looks kind of retro, somewhat like an 80s Chevy C/K pickup or even a Ford Bronco II.
To achieve this level of affordability, the base "Blank Slate" model omits typical modern conveniences like touchscreens, stereos, and power windows in favor of manual crank windows and a universal phone mount. The vehicle is designed to be a customizable, "bare-bones" canvas.
How Small Is It?
In terms of size, the pickup is 2 feet shorter than a Ford Maverick and a little shorter and a little narrower than a Chevy Trax.
The Slate truck is not as small as it looks in photos. For example, it’s bigger than a Honda Fit, and the cab feels roomier than that of the previous-generation Ford Ranger. Many people drive cars this size every day. The cab is wide, and two adults can ride comfortably.
On the road, it’s quick and quiet like most electric vehicles. The ride is surprisingly stable, not choppy like you’d assume given the short wheelbase.
Overall, the Slate truck is compelling. The price of the SUV with the unavoidable destination fee and maybe a handful of accessories will easily cost $32,000. It’s a good price and well below the average cost of a new car.
-Brian Moody
Check out more Slate info on TikTok
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