Jeff Bezos-backed Slate Auto has revealed the production version of its all-electric pick-up ahead of first US deliveries later this year.
Already revealed as a prototype last year, the new battery-powered ute has been developed to disrupt the huge pick-up market with an affordable EV that blends ultra-low pricing with exceptionally low running costs.
A small, rugged SUV is also available, with both models sharing a single 134kW and 264Nm electric motor driving the rear wheels. Total output has dropped by around 15kW compared with the prototype.
READ MORE: Bargain-priced 2026 Slate Truck vows to make pick-ups and SUVs affordable again
Originally, Slate Auto said it would offer two battery packs, but the all-electric Ford Ranger alternative will now launch with only a 63kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, providing a US EPA driving range of 330km.
Capable of charging at up to 120kW on a DC fast charger or 11kW AC, Slate Auto has not released official charging times, although a 20-80 per cent recharge in less than 30 minutes is expected.
Good news for buyers intending to use the EV ute for work is that payload has increased by 53kg to 703kg. However, that’s still well short of the 1000kg-plus payload offered by a Ford Ranger, while its 907kg towing capacity is a long way behind the 3500kg maximum most combustion-powered pick-ups can manage.
Reflecting its lower carrying capacity, the SUV is rated to haul even less, with a 573kg payload and 827kg towing capacity. Slate engineers have paired MacPherson strut front suspension with a De Dion rear axle and coil springs, similar to the arrangement used by the Mercedes-Benz G-Class.
The ute weighs 1837kg, while the SUV tips the scales at around 1973kg. Slate says both versions can accelerate from 0-60mph (0-97km/h) in around 8.0 seconds.
More small ute or SUV than medium-sized utility, the new US EV measures 4435mm long, 1793mm wide and 1730mm tall, with a 2766mm wheelbase. That allows for a 1520mm-long ute tray capable of carrying up to 994 litres of cargo.
A further 198 litres of storage is available in the large front boot.
Originally, the Amazon founder-backed start-up claimed the affordable ute would cost just US$20,000 (A$29,000) after federal tax credits. However, with those subsidies ending in September 2025, Slate has revised pricing for both the ute and SUV.
Available to pre-order now in the US, the entry-level Blank Slate is priced from US$24,950 (A$36,000), while the five-seat Squareback costs US$29,950 (A$43,500). The more rakish Fastback starts from US$31,950 (A$46,000).
Slate Auto also says it will introduce a convertible ‘Open Air’ version after launch.
If those prices sound suspiciously cheap for such a stylish utility, there’s a reason. The Blank Slate comes without speakers or an infotainment system, featuring only a phone cradle.
It also uses manual wind-up windows, with no power windows available, even as an option.
Available accessories include a high-lift suspension kit, roof rack, steel bumpers, dashboard inserts, different seats, an armrest, key fob, speakers, alloy wheels and a tonneau cover incorporating solar panels.
Instead of conventional paint options, buyers can choose from a range of wraps or decal kits. A basic wrap costs US$500 (A$725), while a more elaborate wrap and decal combination is priced at US$1299 (A$1900).
Perhaps the most interesting aspect of the Slate is that owners can buy the ute and later convert it into an SUV, although the transformation must be carried out by a certified installer.
Despite instantly becoming the most affordable EV on the US market, Slate says it is targeting a full five-star rating under the US NCAP crash-testing program.
Accordingly, it comes standard with autonomous emergency braking, a reversing camera, automatic high beam, forward collision warning, and front, side and curtain airbags.
Available to order now via a direct sales model rather than traditional dealerships, the ute and SUV will be serviced through RepairPal’s network of around 3000 workshops. However, only about 100 of those are currently certified to work on the Slate’s high-voltage electrical systems.
Owners are also encouraged to carry out their own repairs, with repair manuals available on the Slate Auto website.
The US brand says the ute and SUV will be covered by a 10-year/177,000km powertrain and battery warranty, although it has yet to announce details of the vehicle’s comprehensive warranty.
Ahead of production commencing at the company’s new Warsaw, Indiana, plant, Slate says it has received an impressive 180,000 refundable deposits.
