Who would have thought that the most exciting electric semi-truck of the year - the Slate Truck - would have manual windows, plastic switches and look like a vehicle from an 80s music video? Back to basics, forward to the future!
In Los Angeles, a new automotive startup called Slate Auto has unveiled a vehicle that is neither a “car” nor an “SUV,” but simply – the Slate Truck. That’s what it’s called. No adjectives, no numbers. Just TruckAnd in its minimalist philosophy, it could be exactly what we need in the glut of digital features, screens, and unearthly prices.
The price after US tax breaks for an EV is just $20,000 (approximately €18,700), which is low in a world where the average new EVs exceed $40,000, almost science fiction. But don't let the low price fool you – the Slate Truck is a real EV with a vision.
Slate Truck technical basis: one engine, two batteries, enough capacity
Truck is a small semi-truck with a single electric motor on the rear axle that produces 201 horsepower (150 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. This is enough for acceleration to 96 km/h (60 mph) in eight seconds and a top speed of 145 km/h (90 mph).
Two batteries are available:
- basic battery capacity 52.7 kWh allows a range of 241 km (150 miles),
- optional 84.3 kWh and the battery provides up to 386 km (240 miles).
Although it is an electric vehicle, you will not find a charging robot here, but standard AC and DC charging - with a power of up to 120 kW, which means you can charge most of the battery in about half an hour.
Slate Truck dimensions that don't shy away from comparisons to the Honda Civic
Yes, “truck” is shorter than Honda Civic Hatchback. Measuring just 4,437 mm (174.6 inches) in length, it has a wheelbase of 2,766 mm and a total weight of 1,633 kg. Sufficient for 650 kg load capacity and 454 kg of towing capacity – not for towing a boat, but enough for a Saturday IKEA trip.
The trunk in the back measures 5 feet (1.52 m) which by the way is not smalland the front an additional 0.2 m³. Despite the retro design, the space layout is maximally utilized.
An interior where the phone becomes an infotainment system
Forget center screens, steering wheel buttons, and smart assistants. The Slate Truck has a smartphone mount, physical climate controls, and – hold your breath – manual windows. Not because it’s retro, but because it’s cheaper and easier. If you want sound, bring a Bluetooth speaker. Ingenious or absurd? Maybe both.
Slate Truck's LEGO-like flexibility
The Truck is designed as a basic platform for customization. More than 100 accessories will be available – from different color films, to roof accessories, additional airbags and even an SUV kit that turns the vehicle into a five-door tourer with additional seats. The idea is that each owner can build the vehicle to their own specifications – almost like LEGO bricks.
Security, despite minimalism
Although everything is basic, safety is not neglected. It comes standard with automatic emergency braking and forward collision warning. If you choose the SUV kit, you also get additional airbags for the rear passengers. ADAS system? No. But for basic driving and city use – more than enough.
Technical data – Slate Truck
| Property | Data |
|---|---|
| Base price | Under €18,800 (including €7,000 subsidy) |
| Battery capacity | 52.7 kWh (basic), 84.3 kWh (surcharge) |
| Charging type | NACS (US standard, similar to CCS) |
| Drive | Single electric motor, rear-wheel drive (RWD) |
| Range (WLTP rating) | approx. 241 km (basic battery), up to 386 km (larger battery) |
| Vehicle length | 4,437 mm (174.6 in) |
| Maximum speed | 145 km/h (90 mph) |
| Carrying capacity | 650 kg (1,433 lbs) |
| Engine power | 150 kW / 201 hp |
| Number of seats | 2 |
Do you want me to include this table in the article as an infographic or as a highlighted box within the text?
Conclusion: Is this madness or genius?
The Slate Truck is, at its core, the perfect counterpoint to modern vehicles. It's not for everyone. But for those who want a simple, practical, affordable EV that they can customize, it might be the best option on the market. It's a bold project that demands even bolder buyers.
Price below 20.000 $ It's tempting, but also challenging – especially with increasingly complex government subsidy requirements. However – if Slate can get production up and running and provide a service network, the Truck will truly redefine personal transportation, as they predict.
And if it's true what they say - that all you need is a phone, some creativity and an open mind - then this electric "non-car" will become a true cult model in the coming years!
