Electric vehicles (EVs) currently represent less than 10% of total new car sales in the United States, and this figure is on a downward trend. This is concerning from an environmental standpoint, as the transportation sector is the foremost contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in the nation. In light of this, Slate Auto’s new electric truck presents a unique approach that could potentially reverse this trend.
The Slate truck departs from the conventional expectations of the American automotive market, focusing instead on simplicity and affordability. Measuring smaller than a Honda Civic, this two-door pickup emphasizes minimalism, even featuring hand-crank windows in its base model—a nod to retro automotive design. Unlike many competitors striving for extended range, the Slate truck is equipped with a 65 kilowatt-hour lithium iron phosphate battery, offering a maximum range of just 205 miles. For context, the entry-level Tesla Model 3 boasts a range exceeding 320 miles. By prioritizing cost-effective features over luxury, Slate is able to offer its base model for under $25,000, significantly lower than the average new vehicle price in the U.S., which hovers around $50,000.
This strategy may seem unconventional in a market where larger, more feature-rich vehicles dominate, especially following the short-lived tenure of the Ford F-150 Lightning, which was discontinued in December 2025. The Lightning’s high price tag—initially around $40,000 and exceeding $54,000 in its final year—was partly due to its substantial battery designed to achieve a nearly 300-mile range. However, data shows that most Americans drive less than 35 miles daily, with nearly 90% of trips being under 20 miles. This raises questions about the necessity of extensive driving range in everyday vehicles. Amid growing economic challenges, including rising living costs, the appeal of an affordable, efficient EV like the Slate truck becomes increasingly relevant. With preorders already underway and support from notable investors, including Jeff Bezos, the Slate truck may very well meet the evolving needs of American drivers.
Source: Is Slate Auto’s new electric truck the EV Americans need? via MIT Technology Review