Slate Electric Truck Prototype Reveals Key Features and Pricing Details
The Slate Electric Truck, a promising entry in the electric vehicle market, boasts a competitive price point and innovative battery technology.
The Slate Electric Truck, a recent addition to the electric vehicle (EV) market, has garnered attention for its affordability and unique features, with a starting price of $24,950, plus a $1,450 destination fee 3. This pricing strategy aims to make the vehicle accessible to a wide range of consumers, positioning it as a strong competitor in the EV segment.
One of the standout aspects of the Slate Electric Truck is its battery technology. It utilizes a 65 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack, which reportedly provides an estimated range of 205 miles 23. This choice of battery type is significant, as it reflects a strategic shift from the original plan, which included a nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) battery option 3. The decision to go with LFP was influenced by the end of federal clean-vehicle tax credits and the improved availability of LFP batteries 3.
The Slate Electric Truck also benefits from a robust warranty, offering a 10-year, 110,000-mile coverage period 23. This longevity promise is crucial for potential buyers, as it addresses concerns about the durability and reliability of the vehicle over time. Additionally, the rear-mounted motor delivers 181 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, though this represents a slight reduction from the initial 201 horsepower specification 23.
In terms of design, the Slate Electric Truck showcases a cabin layout that closely resembles the final production version, although the interior surfaces are currently made of hard, shiny black plastic 1. The vehicle features manual adjustments for both the seats and steering column, along with traditional mechanical door handles and a key fob that needs to be inserted into the dashboard to start the engine 1. Visibility from the two-seat cab is reported to be good, and the truck stands at 68 inches tall, comparable to many crossover vehicles 1.
The Slate Electric Truck also includes several practical features such as manual side mirrors, a backup camera, and a clean, minimalist dashboard design 2. However, there is limited room for seat reclining, and the bed size is described as decent for everyday use 2. These elements contribute to the overall functionality and comfort of the vehicle, making it a versatile choice for various driving scenarios.
Gotion, based in Manteno, Illinois, manufactures the LFP battery used in the Slate Electric Truck 3. This local production adds a layer of economic significance, potentially supporting regional jobs and supply chain efficiency 3. The LFP battery's composition, using iron and phosphate rather than NMC's nickel, manganese, and cobalt, not only impacts cost but also allows for better utilization of space under the truck 3.
What we know
- - The Slate Electric Truck has a starting price of $24,950, plus a $1,450 destination fee 3.
- - It features a 65 kWh LFP battery pack providing an estimated range of 205 miles 23.
- - The vehicle comes with a 10-year, 110,000-mile warranty 23.
- - The rear-mounted motor delivers 181 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque 2.
- - The cabin layout resembles the production version, with manual seat and steering column adjustments 1.
- - Visibility from the cab is good, and the truck is as tall as most crossovers 1.
- - The Slate Electric Truck includes manual side mirrors, a backup camera, and a minimalist dashboard design 2.
- - Gotion manufactures the LFP battery in Manteno, Illinois 3.
The Slate Electric Truck presents itself as a compelling option in the EV market, combining affordability, innovative battery technology, and practical design features.
Trust Score report
Likely accurate — probability of truth 73%, weighted across 27 claims from 3 independent outlets.
- likely The Slate Electric Truck has a starting price of $24,950. (85%)
- likely The Slate Electric Truck has a 65 kWh battery pack. (85%)
- likely The Slate Electric Truck has an estimated range of 205 miles. (85%)
- likely The Slate Electric Truck comes with a 10-year, 110,000-mile warranty. (85%)
- likely The Slate Electric Truck features a rear-mounted motor with 181 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. (71%)
- likely The Slate Electric Truck uses an LFP battery made in Illinois. (70%)
- likely The new LFP battery provides 205 miles range. (70%)
- likely The switch to LFP battery was due to the end of federal clean-vehicle tax credit and improved availability of LFP batteries. (70%)
- likely The Slate aims to maintain a starting price of $24,950 plus $1,450 destination fee. (70%)
- likely The power output was reduced from 201 to 181 horsepower due to the LFP battery. (70%)
- likely The cabin layout resembles the production version, but the surfaces used were hard and shiny black plastic. (72%)
- likely The door handles operate with a mechanical action. (72%)
- likely The seats and steering column adjust manually. (72%)
- likely The key fob is inserted into the dashboard to start the vehicle. (72%)
- likely Visibility from the two-seat cab is good. (72%)
- likely The Slate truck is as tall as most other crossovers at 68 inches. (72%)
- likely There were manual window winders and dials for adjusting the climate control. (72%)
- likely The Slate Electric Truck offers manual side mirrors. (71%)
- likely The Slate Electric Truck provides bold and fun vinyl wrap options. (71%)
- likely The Slate Electric Truck has very little room to recline the seats. (71%)
- likely The Slate Electric Truck has a decent-sized bed suitable for everyday use. (71%)
- likely The Slate Electric Truck includes a backup camera. (71%)
- likely The Slate Electric Truck has a clean and minimalist dashboard design. (71%)
- likely The original plan included a 52.7kWh NMC battery with 150 miles range and an 84.3kWh NMC battery with 240 miles range. (70%)
- likely Gotion manufactures the LFP battery in Manteno, Illinois. (70%)
- likely The LFP battery uses iron and phosphate instead of NMC's nickel, manganese, and cobalt. (70%)
- likely The LFP battery allows for better use of space under the truck. (70%)
Sources
- Ars Technica — What I learned driving the Slate electric truck prototype
https://arstechnica.com/cars/2026/11/what-i-learned-driving-the-slate-electric-truck-prototype/ - Tom's Guide — I finally saw the Slate Truck — 7 things that really stood out to me about this $25,000 EV
https://www.tomsguide.com/vehicle-tech/evs/i-finally-saw-the-slate-truck-7-things-that-really-stood-out-to-me-about-this-usd25-000-ev - Engadget — What type of battery does the Slate Truck use?
https://www.engadget.com/2303044/slate-battery-type-different-plans-before-debut/