Underpromise, overdeliver? Hands-on with the $24,950 Slate auto.

Key Points:

• Slate Auto has improved its electric truck's specs beyond initial promises, increasing range from 180 to 205 miles, tow rating from 1,000 to 2,000 lbs, and load capacity from 1,400 to 1,550 lbs, positioning it as an affordable yet capable vehicle starting at $24,950.
• The truck features a 65 kWh LFP battery, a single motor with 181 horsepower, a 0-60 mph time of eight seconds, and offers one-pedal regenerative braking, but charging speed tops out at 120 kW, which may be slower than some competitors on long trips.
• Slate's modular design allows buyers to customize their vehicle with options like an SUV package and accessories from a marketplace, though some features like power windows are currently unavailable, and the base model omits advanced driver assistance and infotainment systems to keep costs low.
• The company has received significant interest with 180,000 refundable deposits placed, but buyers must convert these to non-refundable deposits soon to secure delivery starting in late 2026, amid uncertainty whether the truck will meet market expectations or face challenges similar to niche vehicle trends.
• Slate aims to appeal to budget-conscious buyers and fleet managers by offering a simple, durable electric pickup that can be upgraded via hardware additions post-purchase, signaling a new approach to vehicle evolution beyond software updates.