Slate, a new electric vehicle startup backed by Jeff Bezos, announced a $25,000 pickup truck, which would position it as the most affordable new EV and pickup in the U.S. market.
The company’s CEO, Chris Barman, said the move addresses a critical gap in the automotive sector, where the average new vehicle cost is nearing $50,000 and the average EV price is around $59,000. Electric pickups such as the Ford F-150 Lightning, Rivian R1T and Tesla Cybertruck can exceed $100,000, putting them out of reach for many consumers.
"There's a massive population of people out there when it comes to safe, reliable, affordable transportation; there just really aren't many alternatives for them," Barman told Business Insider ahead of the truck's unveiling.
Designed around simplicity and accessibility, the Slate Truck comes standard with 150 miles of range and a base configuration featuring crank windows and no radio. However, buyers can upgrade or customize the vehicle over time, with options including power windows, enhanced infotainment and even a kit that transforms the truck into a five-passenger SUV.
"It gives freedom of choice to the owner of what accessories they would want to put on the vehicle, either at the time of purchase or over time, depending on their budget," Barman said.
The company's approach also encourages vehicle longevity and owner customization. Unlike traditional vehicles that often require trading in for different models as needs change, Slate’s modular options enable continuous upgrades without replacing the vehicle entirely.
"It may be, they were single when they first purchased the truck, and they recently got married, and a few years later, they have a family," Barman explained. "Instead of having to exchange it out for a completely new vehicle, they can convert it into a five-passenger SUV and continue to use the vehicle."
Slate plans to sell directly to consumers, eliminating the need for traditional dealerships and their associated service costs. To support owners, the company will launch "Slate University," a series of instructional videos designed to help customers install accessories themselves. Professional installation through local partner facilities will also be available for those who prefer it.
The Slate Truck will be built at a yet-to-be-named facility in the Midwest, with deliveries expected by the end of 2026. Slate is seeking to revitalize a shuttered manufacturing site to house production.
"We would like to see what we can do to go into an existing facility that has been shuttered and reindustrialize and revitalize that community," Barman said.
Reservations for the Slate Truck are now open with a fully refundable $50 deposit.
