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Slate’s Radical Truck Lets You Build Your Own EV – But Can It Beat China?

A radical new electric truck has been unveiled in the United States – and it’s not what you’d expect. Slate Auto, a startup said to be backed by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and other wealthy investors, has announced its first product: a simple, small, electric pickup that starts at around $25,000 before incentives, and about $20,000 after U.S. federal tax credits. Deliveries are expected in late 2026.

But this isn’t just another fancy electric vehicle (EV) packed with futuristic screens and luxury. The Slate Truck is intentionally barebones: no paint, no touchscreen, no radio, no power windows. It’s designed to be a blank slate, literally, for customers to build and customize themselves.

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How the Slate Truck Works

At its core, the Slate Truck is a tiny two-seater pickup:

  • Range: 150 miles from a standard battery, or 240 miles with an optional bigger battery.
  • Motor: Single rear-wheel drive, producing 201 horsepower.
  • Customization: Over 100 accessories can be added after purchase, from sound systems and wraps to seats, windows, and SUV conversion kits.
  • Manufacturing: Built in the U.S. using molded composite body panels instead of steel, helping avoid costly processes like painting and metal stamping – saving Slate between $350 million and $500 million.

The truck will ship in only one color: grey. Instead of offering multiple trims, buyers can personalize using DIY “Starter Packs” that turn the truck into different styles:

  • The Weekender: SUV conversion kit, roof rack, larger tires for adventure trips.
  • The Builder: Contractor-style setup with racks and bright orange wraps.
  • Beach Bound: Doorless, open-air build for summer fun.
  • Lucky 77: Lowered, street-racing inspired design.
  • Mud Master: Rugged off-roader look with a partial red wrap.
  • DJ Set: Loud, colorful party wrap for music lovers.

Even the dashboard is minimal, with mounts for a smartphone or tablet instead of a built-in screen.

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Reservations are open for $50 in the U.S. It seems to be a made in America, built for Americans only. So we shouldn’t expect any global expansions.

Slate Auto unveils a $20,000 DIY electric truck, emphasizing customization, simplicity, and affordability, but facing major survival challenges.

A Cool American Idea – But Will It Survive?

The Slate Truck feels like a throwback to America’s automotive roots – simple, affordable, functional. It taps into the current “Made in America” movement, seemingly pushing back against an auto industry they must view as obsessed with luxury and tech.

However, there are real hurdles ahead:

  • Will the accessories be affordable? A $5,000 SUV conversion kit could quickly push a $25,000 truck into luxury territory.
  • Can it survive the brutal EV market? Many once-hyped EV startups have faced serious challenges, with some like Fisker even filing for bankruptcy. China is currently pushing crazy good value for EVs from affordable simple cars, to exciting luxury hundreds of times cheaper than U.S.-made cars.
  • Will buyers accept the minimalism? In a world of touchscreens and digital dashboards, hand-crank windows and Bluetooth speakers might not feel “enough.”

Slate’s counter to these doubts? Radical simplicity:

  • No infotainment, no headaches: Roughly 70% of EV warranty claims today stem from infotainment systems. By skipping all that tech, Slate hopes to deliver a more reliable, hassle-free truck.
  • DIY repairs encouraged: The company plans to launch Slate University – a platform to teach owners how to service, upgrade, and fix their vehicles themselves.

Could China Copy and Improve It?

Here’s where things get even more interesting.

China’s EV industry, already the most aggressive and innovative in the world, could easily replicate – and improve – this idea.

Imagine a $15,000 electric pickup that’s tougher, has better range, and comes to African markets faster than Slate ever could. Chinese brands like BYD have already shown they can dominate on affordability and scale.

If Slate’s truck proves there’s real demand for a modular, DIY-style electric vehicle, you can bet Chinese manufacturers will move swiftly to capture global markets – including Kenya.

Slate Auto unveils a $20,000 DIY electric truck, emphasizing customization, simplicity, and affordability, but facing major survival challenges.

Why Slate’s Idea is Still Exciting

Despite the challenges, it’s refreshing to see an automaker genuinely think differently.

  • Affordability first: Most EV startups launch luxury models, then “move downmarket.” Slate flips that script – cheap first, upgrades later.
  • DIY spirit: Owning and personalizing your truck over time feels liberating and accessible.
  • Simplicity: Cutting unnecessary features keeps costs low and repairs easy – something crucial for emerging markets too.

For Kenya and Africa at large, the Slate Truck itself may remain a distant dream. But the radical thinking behind it – cheap, rugged, customizable EVs – could inspire new ideas and open doors.

In the end, Slate Auto is offering a bold experiment: a truck that’s part vehicle, part creative canvas. Whether it thrives or becomes another footnote in EV history, it’s a story well worth watching.


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The Analyst

The Analyst delivers in-depth, data-driven insights on technology, industry trends, and digital innovation, breaking down complex topics for a clearer understanding. Reach out: Mail@Tech-ish.com

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