Slate Truck Prices Rise, But So Do Capabilities
Slate's much-anticipated electric truck and SUV models have seen a significant price revision since their initial announcement in April 2025. While the original target price for the truck was around $20,000 after federal tax credits, the updated figures reveal a starting price of $24,950 for the truck and $29,950 for the SUV. Despite this increase, the company has incorporated substantial upgrades to the vehicles' performance and utility, aiming to justify the adjusted cost.
One of the most notable enhancements is the upgraded battery system. Both the truck and SUV will now feature a larger 65.0-kilowatt-hour lithium-iron-phosphate battery, providing an impressive driving range of up to 205 miles for the pickup variant. This represents a significant improvement over the previously announced 150 miles from a smaller 52.7-kWh pack. Although the single electric motor's horsepower has been slightly reduced from 201 to 181, the torque remains a robust 195 pound-feet, ensuring strong acceleration.
Performance figures released by Slate indicate that the truck can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 8.0 seconds and reach an estimated top speed of 90 mph. The truck's curb weight is 4,048 pounds, while the SUV is slightly heavier at 4,335 pounds. These specifications position the Slate vehicles as competitive options within the electric utility segment, balancing efficiency with practical capability.
Further improving their utility, Slate has increased the payload and towing capacities. The truck can now handle a payload of up to 1,550 pounds and tow up to 2,000 pounds. For the SUV, these figures are 1,263 pounds for payload and 1,824 pounds for towing. These expanded capabilities cater to the needs of hardworking individuals and businesses that require versatile and robust electric vehicles.
Slate emphasizes that its truck and SUV are designed for those seeking adaptable vehicles without excessive financial burden. The design philosophy focuses on simplicity, with half the number of parts found in a typical pickup, the absence of a large touchscreen interface, and the retention of physical controls. This approach also promotes ease of customization and repairability, allowing owners to tailor their vehicles to evolving requirements.
The company offers a range of customization options, enabling truck buyers to convert their vehicles into SUVs post-purchase, with choices of Squareback and Fastback designs. A wide array of accessories, exceeding 175 items, will be available, including stereos, roof racks, and seat covers. Additionally, Slate plans to offer over 100 vehicle wraps at launch, as all vehicles are initially manufactured in gray, providing an affordable way for owners to personalize their rides for under $500.
Slate is backing its new lineup with a comprehensive 10-year, 110,000-mile warranty covering the battery and powertrain, instilling confidence in buyers. The company anticipates commencing deliveries in the fourth quarter of the current year, marking a crucial step in bringing these innovative electric vehicles to the market.
Ultimately, whether the Slate Truck and SUV, priced at $25,000 and $30,000 respectively, offer compelling value is a question only time will answer. The company's focus on enhanced range, increased capacities, and user-friendly customization options aims to attract a market segment valuing practicality and adaptability in their electric vehicles.