Slate, an American electric vehicle startup backed by Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos, has unveiled its first model, the Slate electric pickup truck.
This innovative vehicle boasts the ability to transform into a five-seat SUV or off-road vehicle similar to the Jeep Wrangler, providing exceptional versatility. With a starting price of under €18.600 including subsidies in the US, the Slate aims to disrupt the electric vehicle market by offering an affordable solution with extensive customization options.
The Slate is based on a skateboard architecture and will be available with two battery options: a 52,7 kWh battery pack that provides an estimated range of 240 km, and a larger 84,3 kWh battery pack that extends the range to 390 km. Both configurations are equipped with a rear-mounted electric motor with an output of 150 kW (204 hp). The base model, the Black Slate, includes a 1,5-meter tailpipe, NACS connector, a towing capacity of 450 kg and a maximum payload of 635 kg. It also supports 120 kW DC fast charging, allowing a charge from 20 to 80 percent in about 30 minutes.
To keep the price as low as possible, the Slate has taken a minimalist approach, omitting features such as a radio, speakers and infotainment screen. Inside, there is a basic dashboard with a small digital instrument cluster, and the windows are manually operated by the driver and front passenger. A phone holder is included, and Slate is developing a companion app for entertainment content. In addition to the basic configuration, buyers can customize the vehicle to their wishes and needs with a wide range of optional equipment.
