Amazon founder Jeff Bezos is one of the primary investors in a new affordable EV truck company called Slate. The company has raised over $111 million from investors, including Bezos and Mark Wallers, the majority owner of the LA Dodgers. The news about Slate was first reported by TechCrunch earlier this month, and the company seems to be making waves in the news recently.
Slate is marketed as a versatile two-door electric pickup that can transform into an SUV. The company claims that the price will be below $20,000 after applying the $7,500 EV tax credit, although the availability of this credit in 2026 when the first models are expected to be delivered is uncertain. Slate states that the vehicle is designed in California and Michigan, engineered in Michigan, and assembled in the Midwest.
The truck features a 4-by-5 foot bed, cloth seats, crank windows, no Bluetooth, no speakers, and a 150-mile range. There is also an extended-range version with a 240-mile range, but pricing for this option has not been disclosed. The cargo bed is spacious enough to hold around 30 dachshunds, catering to a unique customer preference.
In terms of customization, Slate offers the option to order a different color wrap for an additional cost or receive a wrap and instructions for self-installation for around $500. The vehicle comes with mounting for iPhones and an accessory bracket for iPads, although additional costs may apply. Slate emphasizes that built-in infotainment systems can increase the price of a vehicle and become outdated quickly, offering fully-loaded options as accessories that can be installed at delivery or later on.
Interested buyers can reserve a Slate today for a refundable $50. The unconventional approach of Slate has sparked curiosity and raised questions about its practicality. With Bezos’s involvement, Slate is positioned to make a significant impact in the electric vehicle market.
