A new electric vehicle startup is rocking the auto industry. And this time, it’s backed by Jeff Bezos.
Slate Auto, a Michigan electric vehicle startup, just debuted a stripped-down EV pickup truck that costs a mere $25,000. That’s not a misprint. In a world where EVs tend to crest $70,000 or higher, this new truck is a brazen exception. But would you even buy it?
A Truck Approved by Bezos
Supported by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, Slate Auto launched its first car in Long Beach, California, with a flair for drama. The launch wasn’t merely a product introduction it was a statement.
Slate’s mission is straightforward: produce an affordable, upgradable electric truck for the masses. And to that end, yes, including budget-conscious drivers.
CEO Chris Barman, a one-time Fiat-Chrysler executive, put the mission in simple terms: “We wanted to get that cost out of the base vehicle.” No waste, no frills, just functionality.
Built to Be Basic
What does a $25,000 electric pickup look like? Surprisingly raw and clean. The base model has steel wheels, manual crank windows, and no radio. It’s deliberately stripped down so customers can add on over time with accessories.
Need power windows? Add them down the road. Want a sound system or a gaudy paint job? Take it home when your wallet’s ready. There are more than 100 customization choices, making the Slate Truck a blank canvas.
That’s right, Slate’s title isn’t by chance. It’s a “clean slate” for consumers.
The DIY Electric Truck Generation
This idea might sound wild, but it’s surprisingly practical. Every truck will leave the factory in the same basic form. What happens next is up to you.
You can trick it out with high-end interiors, premium wheels, or even an SUV kit that transforms it into a five-passenger ride. Yes, really. The truck can morph into an SUV with seats, airbags, and a roll cage, all in about an hour.
And here’s the best part: most of these mods are something that can be done by the buyer themselves. It’s made for the DIY generation: young drivers who want something more, something different.
Performance You Can Count On
The entry-level truck isn’t only inexpensive l but it’s frugal. It has a 52.7 kWh battery and 201 horsepower, with an estimated range of about 150 miles. For those who require more, Slate has an upgraded 84.3 kWh battery, which extends the range to 240 miles.
It’s easy to charge, too. It uses a standard household outlet, so overnight charging is simple and convenient. And Slate didn’t skimp on safety, either. The truck comes with emergency braking, forward collision warning, and other necessities.
How It Stacks Up
So how does the Slate Truck stack up against today’s EV titans?
Tesla’s most affordable car begins well north of the $25,000 threshold and their long-hyped budget EV still lacks a firm release date. Rivian’s base pickups start around $70,000. Even mainstream brands haven’t quite nailed it. The Ford Maverick, the most affordable current pickup in America, begins at $26,995. And that’s not even electric.
Slate is about to cut them all down.
A Bet That Might Just Pay Off
The EV space is on fire. Clean energy and tech are booming and Slate is catching the wave. With Bezos as an investor, it’s easy not to rule out the startup’s potential. The Slate Truck isn’t only affordable but it’s also clever. It puts control in consumers’ hands, saves them cash, and disrupts the norm.
A Truck With Personality
Slate is tapping into something electric cars tend to lack, that is personalization. Most EVs are delivered as set packages. Slate delivers a truck that can expand with its owner. It’s a car that begins humble, but can adapt with each paycheck, each upgrade, and each adventure.
This strategy converts consumers into makers. Slate isn’t merely selling a car but it’s selling a build-your-own experience.
When the Slate Car will be delivered?
If you’re intrigued, you’re not alone. At the launch event, Slate’s CEO shouted to a packed crowd, “How many of you have placed an order?” Applause followed. For just a $50 refundable deposit, you can reserve one too. Deliveries are expected by the end of 2026.
So, Would You Buy It?
A $25K EV truck with Bezos support, DIY modifications, and a convertible SUV package it’s so bold we almost can’t believe it. But Slate is bringing it to life. It’s not simply a truck. It’s a revolution in what we buy, build, and share about our cars.
So we’ll ask again: Will you buy a Bezos-backed truck for $25K?
With this much technology at this price point, the real question may be: why not?
