Official Pricing and Destination Fees
Slate, a company frequently in the spotlight for its efforts to deliver an affordable electric pickup, has finally clarified the total cost for prospective buyers. While the company previously circulated a starting price of $24,950, the inclusion of a mandatory $1,450 destination charge brings the actual base price to $26,400. Despite this adjustment, the vehicle remains one of the most accessible electric trucks on the market.
California Incentives Drive Costs Lower
The financial proposition becomes even more attractive for residents of California, which currently represents the largest market for electric vehicles in the U.S. Following the recent signing of SB 168 by Governor Gavin Newsom, the new "MyFirstEV" program provides a $3,500 point-of-sale rebate for first-time EV buyers. This legislative support brings the entry-level price of the Slate pickup down to just $22,900 for California residents.
To put this pricing into perspective, the Slate competes against established internal combustion engine counterparts. For comparison, the base price of a Ford Maverick begins near $30,000, while the Hyundai Santa Cruz and Nissan Frontier start at $31,350 and $33,895, respectively.
Customization and Delivery Timeline
To maintain a low entry price while allowing for personalization, the company is launching the "Slate Marketplace." This platform will offer over 200 accessories, including roof racks and audio upgrades, with the majority priced under $500. Additionally, consumers can choose from over 100 wrap colors, priced at $499.99 plus installation costs.
"Slate gives customers the freedom to buy only what they need today and personalize their vehicle as their needs change tomorrow," stated CEO Peter Faricy.
The company reports over 180,000 reservation holders and has transitioned toward a "preorder" model. Deliveries are currently scheduled to commence in the fourth quarter of this year.
Technical Specifications and Performance
The updated specifications for the Slate pickup include several notable improvements:
- Battery and Range: The vehicle now features a 65 kWh LFP battery, delivering an estimated range of 205 miles.
- Charging: Equipped with a NACS port, the truck is compatible with the Tesla Supercharger network, supporting charging speeds up to 120 kW. A home Level 2 charger can achieve a full charge in four hours.
- Capability: Towing capacity has been increased to 2,000 lbs, and payload capacity now reaches 1,550 lbs.
- Performance: The rear-wheel-drive electric motor generates 181 horsepower, allowing the 4,048-pound vehicle to reach 60 mph in 8 seconds.
