Slate Auto Opens Preorders for Its Budget-Friendly $25,000 Electric Pickup

Slate Auto is moving closer to bringing its highly anticipated sub-$25,000 electric truck to market, officially opening preorders on the company’s website. While the window for orders is now open, some customers may have to wait a year or two before taking delivery of their vehicles.

The base model starts at $24,950, with various accessories and color options available. However, industry analysts note that final costs will exceed the $25,000 mark once destination and delivery fees are added. While Slate claims these fees will be lower than the industry average, they are still expected to range between $1,200 and $1,500.

Despite these additional costs, the truck enters a U.S. market dominated by expensive SUVs. According to Kelley Blue Book, average vehicle prices peaked above $50,000 earlier this year. Given that electric vehicles typically command a premium of $5,000 to $7,000 over gas-powered counterparts, Slate’s pricing makes the truck a significant anomaly in the current landscape.

Alongside the preorder launch, Slate revealed updated specifications for the vehicle. The truck’s range has been improved from an initial 150 miles to 205 miles per charge. To attract a wider audience, the company is offering extensive customization, including over 100 wrap colors and versatile conversion options that allow owners to modify the two-seater configuration after purchase.

Securing a preorder requires a nonrefundable $300 deposit. For the 180,000 customers who previously placed refundable $50 reservations, Slate is allowing that initial deposit to be applied toward the preorder cost.

While the company’s website suggests that initial deliveries will begin later this year, full-scale production is not expected to reach capacity until 2027. To date, Slate has raised $1.3 billion in funding, with Amazon founder Jeff Bezos among its prominent investors.

Mixed Critical Reception and First Impressions

The vehicle has sparked debate among industry critics. The Wall Street Journal questioned the truck’s appeal, highlighting its minimalist features—such as hand-crank windows and the absence of a radio—to question if there is a genuine market for such a basic EV.

Conversely, those who have experienced the truck firsthand have been more positive. Nick Yekikian of Edmunds described the vehicle as “cute” and “charming,” noting that the build quality has improved and the vehicle appears ready for public roads. Aaron Gold of MotorTrend echoed this sentiment, stating the truck meets expectations and expressing high hopes for the affordable electric pickup.

David Tracy of The Autopian described the driving experience as “insanely fun.” While acknowledging that it isn’t the absolute cheapest option or the most practical for families, Tracy argued that the Slate is “by far, the most soulful new vehicle an American consumer will be able to buy for $25,000.”

The Competitive Landscape for Affordable EVs

Currently, the Chevrolet Bolt remains one of the closest competitors in the budget EV space, priced just under $30,000. However, other manufacturers are eyeing the entry-level market. Ford is reportedly developing a low-cost electric truck in the $30,000 range, slated for a 2027 release.

Additionally, shifting political and trade landscapes could potentially open the door for Chinese-built EVs. As noted by Reuters, some Chinese electric vehicles are priced below $12,000—a price point so low that a consumer could purchase several such vehicles for the cost of a single average American car.

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