Most new vehicles seem to add more screens, more technology and more features every year. But a new electric vehicle from startup Slate is taking the opposite approach, focusing on simplicity, customization and a low starting price.
I recently got a ride in the company’s new electric pickup, which starts at $24,950 and has an estimated 205 miles of range.
The idea behind Slate is simple: start with a basic vehicle and let owners decide exactly what they want to add.
“It is the most personalizable vehicle ever made,” said Jeremy Snyder of Slate.
The base truck comes with just the essentials: two seats, standard safety features, a backup camera and a phone mount where you might normally expect a large touchscreen. Instead, there’s a small digital display that shows speed and other basic driving information.
One feature that’s almost unheard of in a new vehicle? Hand-crank windows.
Rather than including expensive features that not everyone wants, Slate plans to sell them separately.
“Any bells and whistles you want, you just add through the Slate marketplace,” Snyder said.
At launch, the company says it will offer more than 200 accessories and over 100 wrap colors. Owners can change the appearance of the truck, upgrade the interior or even convert it into an SUV. That would make the price closer to $35,000.
The concept has caught the attention of automotive journalists, though opinions are mixed.
“There’s nothing else really in the market like this, so I do think that is quite an advantage to Slate,” said Jessica Ray of MotorWeek.
Others question whether enough buyers will embrace such a minimalist vehicle.
“I’m not sure that there’s a market for this vehicle that’s extremely large,” said John Pearley Huffman of Road & Track. “It’s a little bit too small. It’s only a two-door, not a four-door. And by the time you turn it into an SUV, it becomes a $30,000 truck.”
Although journalists weren’t allowed to drive the vehicle ourselves, we were able to ride along on a test course. I got a version wrapped in big giant polka dots.
From the passenger seat, the experience was enjoyable.
It’s sparse in the interior, but the Slate is fast, smooth, and roomy. I couldn’t believe how much room it felt like there was inside.
The truck’s toy-like styling brought back childhood memories. Several customized versions on display looked like the toy trucks I used to play with as a kid.
Pre-orders for the Slate EV are open now with a non-refundable $300 deposit. The company expects first deliveries later this year.
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