Slate Auto unveils a basic electric truck priced under $20,000, manufactured in the US

Slate unveils a basic $20K electric truck, backed by Bezos, with DIY upgrades.

: Slate Auto has introduced an innovative electric truck priced below $20,000, challenging traditional vehicle design with its modest features. This Michigan-based startup, backed by Jeff Bezos, is revolutionizing ownership with a focus on simplicity and affordability. The Slate Truck features manual windows, a lack of touchscreens, and promotes personalization and upgrades through DIY kits. It adheres to a direct-to-consumer model, allowing preorders online for a seamless buying experience.

In a bid to redefine the concept of affordable electric vehicles, Slate Auto reveals its latest venture—a no-frills electric truck priced under $20,000. The startup is not just about affordability, though; it's poised to transform vehicle design and ownership through its minimalist yet robust construction. Spearheaded by a Michigan-based team, this bold initiative promises to deliver a two-seater truck that cuts through the conventions of traditional auto manufacturing.

The Slate Truck's price point is strikingly lower than most electric vehicles on the market today. This feat is achieved by using basic features like manual windows and encouraging customization through DIY kits. By eliminating complex systems like touchscreens and radios, Slate aims to cut down on warranty claims and offer a vehicle that is straightforward for the consumer to personalize and maintain.

Fueling the initiative's credibility is the backing of Jeff Bezos, though Slate Auto remains separate from Amazon. Chris Barman, the CEO, along with Tisha Johnson, the head of design, emphasize their focus on creating a vehicle ready to withstand the rigors of everyday use. The truck’s body is composed of a durable, unpainted plastic that resists common scratches, perfectly aligning with their 'battle-scarred shark' design philosophy, and marking a return to similar ideas from the 1990s with Saturn cars.

Moreover, the production method is streamlined by manufacturing the truck near Indiana. By cutting out traditional paint shops and metal stamping, Slate Auto significantly reduces production complexity, a strategy praised by Jeremy Snyder, the chief commercial officer. The supply chain remains largely domestic, further simplifying logistics. Only one model of the truck will be produced, with upgrades and modifications managed separately.

In terms of consumer interaction, Slate adopts Tesla's direct-to-consumer approach, allowing potential buyers to preorder with a $50 deposit. Deliveries of the Slate Truck are anticipated by late 2026, showing promise in providing a new, budget-friendly alternative to the typical electric vehicle. This approach not only simplifies ownership but also opens up the potential for continued customization and personalization, catering to a growing market of individualistic car owners.

Sources: TechSpot, Bloomberg

startupsInvestment