Slate Auto has made headlines with its electric pickup truck, which is priced at an entry-level cost of $24,950. Initially, the company projected a range of 180 miles (290 km) for the base model, but this has now increased to 205 miles (330 km). Additionally, the towing capacity has risen from 1,000 lbs (454 kg) to 2,000 lbs (907 kg), and the payload capacity has improved from 1,400 lbs (635 kg) to 1,550 lbs (703 kg).
Performance and Handling
While I was unable to drive the truck myself, riding as a passenger provided valuable insights into its performance. The vehicle features a single motor that produces 181 horsepower (135 kW) and 195 lb-ft (264 Nm) of torque, delivering a 0-to-60 mph time of approximately eight seconds and a top speed of 90 mph (145 km/h). The handling was notably smooth, with effective management of road bumps and cornering.
Battery and Charging Specifications
The Slate truck is equipped with a 65 kWh gross (63 kWh usable) LFP battery pack, achieving a range of 3.3 miles/kWh (19.1 kWh/100 km). Charging capabilities include a maximum of 120 kW at DC fast chargers, allowing the battery to charge from 20 to 80 percent in about 30 minutes. However, this charging speed is slower compared to competitors like the Chevy Bolt, which supports 150 kW.
Modular Design and Customization
One of the standout features of the Slate truck is its modular design, allowing for various upgrades post-purchase. For instance, the vehicle can be outfitted as an SUV with a starting price of $29,950, although this option reduces the payload capacity to 1,263 lbs (573 kg) and towing capacity to 1,824 lbs (827 kg). Slate also offers a marketplace with over 200 items for customization, most priced under $500.
Slate Auto is currently in discussions with fleet managers, highlighting the vehicle’s potential for commercial use. The company has also committed to a 10-year/110,000-mile warranty on the powertrain and battery, ensuring reliability for users.
In summary, Slate Auto’s electric pickup truck presents a compelling option for those seeking an affordable, customizable electric vehicle. With improved specifications and a focus on practicality, it aims to carve out a niche in the growing electric vehicle market.
This article was produced by NeonPulse.today using human and AI-assisted editorial processes, based on publicly available information. Content may be edited for clarity and style.
