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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesSlate Auto’s first vehicle is an electric pickup designed to reject much of the equipment now considered standard in a modern EV. It has manual windows, physical controls, no built-in infotainment screen and an unpainted body intended to be customized by its owner.
The Bezos-backed startup unveiled the vehicle in Long Beach, California, on April 24, 2025. Slate now describes it as a preproduction, rear-wheel-drive electric truck that can be converted into a five-seat SUV, with first deliveries planned for late 2026.
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A deliberately simple electric pickup
Slate’s vehicle starts as a two-door, two-seat pickup. Its design is intentionally sparse: there is no factory-installed infotainment display, no traditional built-in stereo, manual window controls and analog HVAC controls. Drivers are expected to supply a phone or tablet for navigation, media and other connected functions.
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Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallThat approach is the reason the truck has been described as “anti-Tesla.” The phrase refers to its product philosophy rather than a formal competitive claim from Slate. Tesla helped popularize large central touchscreens and software-heavy vehicle interiors; Slate is going in the opposite direction with physical controls and fewer factory-installed features.
#1 Best Overall
- Realistic Mecha-Style Design: This 12V ride on truck features a sturdy mecha shell paired with massive off-road tires. When the dynamic LED lights on the front of the vehicle illuminate, kids can take control of this "mobile exploration base camp, "kids command an explorer's mobile base camp with mission-ready versatility
- Detachable battery for flexible charging: Remove for charging or use the onboard port. Enhanced safety with over-current protection and sleep mode
- Dual Fun Modes: Switch between manual driving and remote control modes in children car, enhancing parent-child interaction through secure parental guidance or fostering independent play for children. Equipped with seatbelts, anti-slip wheels, and 3-speed settings for safe skill development
- Immersive Driving Experience: Engineered with a music player (mobile-connected), adjustable volume, horn, unique startup sound, and forward/backward switches, this kids 4 wheeler sparks imaginative adventures during backyard cruising or pretend play
- More Space, More Comfort: Designed for big kids, this ride-on car features a wider gap between the steering wheel and seat than standard models, ensuring more comfort whether sitting or moving.
The minimalist specification is also part of the pricing and customization strategy. Slate does not offer a separate fully loaded trim. Buyers can add equipment at delivery, have it installed later by a service provider or, where appropriate, install it themselves.
Pickup, SUV and other body configurations
The base vehicle is a rear-wheel-drive pickup with two seats. Flat-pack accessory kits can turn it into a five-seat SUV. Slate currently lists these body-style configurations:
- Pickup
- Squareback
- Fastback
- Open Air Kit
- Cargo Kit
The pickup is intended to carry more cargo and tow more than the SUV configuration. Slate’s current projected figures are:
| Configuration | Payload | Towing capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Pickup | 1,550 pounds | 2,000 pounds |
| SUV | 1,263 pounds | 1,824 pounds |
These are projected preproduction figures, not final certified production ratings. Slate says the specifications can change before the truck reaches customers.
Current price is not $20,000
The original 2025 launch positioning suggested a price below $20,000 after the then-available federal EV tax credit. That is no longer the correct figure to use for the truck’s current pricing.
Slate now lists the base Blank Slate at $24,950. That price excludes taxes, title, registration, government fees, destination, documentation charges and options. The destination charge is listed separately at $1,450.
Rank #2
- Realistic Mecha-Style Design: This 12V ride on truck features a sturdy mecha shell paired with massive off-road tires. When the dynamic LED lights on the front of the vehicle illuminate, kids can take control of this "mobile exploration base camp, "kids command an explorer's mobile base camp with mission-ready versatility
- Detachable battery for flexible charging: Remove for charging or use the onboard port. Enhanced safety with over-current protection and sleep mode
- Dual Fun Modes: Switch between manual driving and remote control modes in children car, enhancing parent-child interaction through secure parental guidance or fostering independent play for children. Equipped with seatbelts, anti-slip wheels, and 3-speed settings for safe skill development
- Immersive Driving Experience: Engineered with a music player (mobile-connected), adjustable volume, horn, unique startup sound, and forward/backward switches, this kids 4 wheeler sparks imaginative adventures during backyard cruising or pretend play
- More Space, More Comfort: Designed for big kids, this ride-on car features a wider gap between the steering wheel and seat than standard models, ensuring more comfort whether sitting or moving.
Accessories can therefore move the final price substantially higher. Slate’s current marketplace offers nearly four dozen accessories, while the company said at launch that more than 100 were planned. Available categories include wraps, body kits, audio equipment, interior equipment and the parts needed for the SUV conversion.
The preorder terms have also changed. The former $50 refundable reservation window is closed. Current preorders require a $300 nonrefundable deposit, or $250 for customers with an active reservation. The deposit is credited toward the purchase price.
Battery, range and performance
Slate’s current specification sheet lists a 65-kWh lithium-iron-phosphate battery, with 63 kWh of usable energy. The projected range for the pickup is 205 miles.
That is different from the figures released at the 2025 debut, which described a 52.7-kWh battery targeting 150 miles and an optional 84.3-kWh pack targeting 240 miles. The current specification sheet does not list that former larger-battery option.
Power comes from a single rear-mounted motor. Current projected powertrain figures include:
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →| Specification | Current projected figure |
|---|---|
| Drive layout | Rear-wheel drive |
| Motor output | 135 kW |
| Torque | 264 Nm |
| 0–60 mph | 8.0 seconds |
| Top speed | 90 mph |
| Pickup range | 205 miles projected |
The earlier launch material cited a 150-kW motor and 201 horsepower. The newer specification sheet uses the 135-kW figure, so the current numbers should take priority when comparing the planned production vehicle.
Rank #3
- AUTHENTIC RAM 1500 DESIGN: This officially licensed kids electric vehicles perfectly captures the essence of the Ram 1500. It features key-start ignition, a realistic gear shifter, and independently controlled LED headlights. From the lifelike exterior to the driving mechanics, every detail has been faithfully recreated to offer a truly premium driving experience.
- ADVANCED SAFETY FEATURES: This ride on truck comes with a smooth-start function and a four-wheel suspension system to prevent sudden jolts. The three-point seatbelt, lockable doors, and raised side windows offer added protection for your child, allowing you to feel confident as they safely explore their driving skills.
- IMMERSIVE SOUND EXPERIENCE: From the deep engine rumble to the realistic horn, this electric car for kids delivers an authentic auditory experience. Easily connect via AUX, USB, or Bluetooth to play your child's favorite music or educational content, transforming every drive into a multi-sensory journey. The volume is adjustable, ensuring the sound stays loud and clear even while the car is moving
- DUAL DRIVING MODES: Parents can guide younger drivers using the remote control, which includes an emergency brake for added safety. As your child grows, they can independently steer and accelerate using the foot pedal, confidently building independence on the road.
- SPACIOUS REAR STORAGE: The roomy rear storage compartment offers plenty of space for toys, snacks, water bottles, or other outing essentials. With easy access, it adds both functionality and convenience, making outdoor adventures smoother for parents and kids alike.
Charging uses the NACS connector
The Slate truck will use the North American Charging Standard connector. Its current charging specifications are:
- 11-kW onboard AC charger
- Projected Level 2 charging from 20% to 100% in four hours
- Projected DC fast charging from 20% to 80% in 30 minutes
- DC fast-charging rate of up to 120 kW
Those estimates will depend on the charging equipment, battery temperature and state of charge. The truck’s relatively modest battery means the 120-kW peak is not directly comparable with the larger packs used by long-range electric pickups.
An unpainted body built around wraps
The body is not being presented as a conventional painted vehicle. Slate designed the exterior to be wrapped, allowing owners to change the appearance without ordering a different factory color or trim.
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There is an important limitation: Slate says the body-panel material requires Slate-designed wraps. Ordinary third-party wraps may lift, bubble or peel. Current Classic Wraps are priced at just under $500, with professional installation targeted at under $500.
This makes the Blank Slate less like a finished, fixed-specification truck and more like a platform. Buyers can leave it basic, add a wrap, install a stereo or build the SUV configuration later. The trade-off is that the headline price represents a particularly bare vehicle, not an equivalently equipped alternative to a mainstream compact pickup.
What Slate’s business model looks like
Slate is betting that some buyers would rather start with an inexpensive EV and add only the equipment they want. That differs from the normal automotive model, in which manufacturers sell a handful of trims with bundled features.
Rank #4
- 【Official License & Immersive Retro Adventure】This kids' electric car perfectly recreates the classic styling and retro colors of the 1973 Ford F-150. Complete with bright LED headlights, realistic engine sounds, a functional steering wheel, and a music panel with Bluetooth & FM radio, it immerses young drivers in a realistic experience. Every detail is designed for immersive pretend play, they're not just driving, they're starring in their own outdoor adventure
- 【Powerful 24V 4WD for All Terrains】Move beyond the limitations of 12V or standard 24V 2WD car that struggle on grass and complex surfaces. Featuring a 24V 4WD system powered by four 100W motors, this ride on toy delivers superior torque and traction, smoothly carrying two children (total weight ≤130 lbs) uphill and over terrain like gravel, grass, or mud. An upgraded stable turning radius and a maximum speed limit of 4.3 mph ensure safe and controlled driving, preventing tipping on uneven ground
- 【Ends Sibling Fights, True 2-Seater Comfort】Unlike other cramped ride ons the market, this electric car for kids features newly upgraded, roomy 2 seats (20”L x 14”W x 7.1”H) that comfortably fit two children aged 3–8, turning"my turn" fights into cooperative adventures. More than just a play vehicle, it makes a perfect gift for birthdays, Children's Day, or Christmas, encouraging active play over screen time, building coordination, and sparking lasting joy
- 【Remote Control, Command Safety】Stay in full command with the parent priority remote. Optimized with a 65ft Safety Range for max signal power, it lets you steer from your garden chair or stop instantly without lag. This precision helps your child progress from wobbly turns on grass to confident rides on the driveway. Soft-start tech boosts balance for beginners, while lockable doors and 3-point belts secure every bumpy adventure, it's pure joy for them, true peace of mind for you
- 【Extended Outdoor Playtime】This kids' electric vehicles equipped with a 24V 7AH large-capacity battery (50% more than standard 5AH models), providing enough power for children to explore parks and cruise down driveways for 70-130 minutes, depending on load and terrain. It also has an extra-large trunk for toys, snacks and treasure maps, sparing parents from carrying bags and letting kids enjoy longer outdoor fun
The company’s accessory approach could make the truck easier to personalize, but it also creates practical questions. The eventual cost of a five-seat SUV conversion, the availability of parts, installation labor and long-term support will matter as much as the base price. Slate says features such as displays, stereos and power windows can be added at delivery or later through a service provider.
Service support is planned through a partnership with RepairPal, which Slate says will provide access to 3,000 Certified repair shops nationwide. The company currently advertises a 10-year/110,000-mile battery and powertrain warranty, a four-year/50,000-mile limited vehicle warranty and four years/50,000 miles of roadside assistance.
Bezos backing and company leadership
Calling Slate “Bezos-backed” is accurate, although the amount Jeff Bezos invested has not been publicly disclosed. His family office participated in Slate’s Series A financing, and family-office manager Melinda Lewison appeared on company filings as a director. Slate’s April 2026 Series C brought total disclosed fundraising to roughly $1.4 billion; the $650 million round was led by TWG Global.
Leadership has changed since the truck’s debut. Peter Faricy, a former Amazon Marketplace executive, became CEO in March 2026. Founding CEO Chris Barman moved into the role of president of vehicles.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Production and delivery timing
Slate says the truck will be assembled at its factory in Warsaw, Indiana. First deliveries are slated for late 2026, but the vehicle remains in preproduction.
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Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →That status matters when evaluating every major number. The 205-mile range is a projected estimate rather than an official EPA rating, while acceleration, top speed, payload, towing capacity and charging times can change before production. Pricing and accessory availability are also subject to change.
Best Value
- LICENSED RAM 24V POWER - This ride-on truck features authentic RAM styling and is powered by a 24V rechargeable battery with dual motors for steady performance. With a speed range of 1.9–4.4 MPH and a 2-seater design, it’s suitable for outdoor rides on driveways and backyards.
- 2 MODES WITH REMOTE - Kids can drive using the steering wheel and foot pedal, or parents can take control with the included 2.4G remote. With 3 remote speed settings and up to 94 in of range, it’s a great option for younger riders who are still learning.
- SAFETY FEATURES - Designed with soft start technology to ensure smooth acceleration and prevent sudden jolts. Equipped with a secure three-point seat belt and lockable doors to help keep children safely seated during operation, giving parents added peace of mind.
- BLUETOOTH MUSIC PLAY - Built-in Bluetooth function lets kids easily connect devices and play their favorite music while driving, adding more fun to every ride. Bright LED lights enhance visibility and create a more immersive driving atmosphere, making playtime more engaging both day and night.
- SPACIOUS UTILITY DESIGN - The rear truck bed adds extra pretend-play fun for carrying toys and little treasures. Built-in rolling wheels allow for easy movement and transport when not in use, making it more practical for everyday use.
For now, Slate’s proposition is clear: a small electric utility vehicle with rear-wheel drive, a relatively modest battery, a low equipment count and a large menu of owner-installed upgrades. It could appeal to buyers who value simplicity and low entry cost more than a polished, feature-packed cabin. Whether that formula works will depend on the final price of the accessories, the quality of the conversion kits and whether Slate can deliver at scale.
Sources: Slate FAQ, Slate current specification sheet, TechCrunch.
FAQ
What is the Slate Auto electric truck?
It is a planned two-door, two-seat rear-wheel-drive electric pickup that can be converted into a five-seat SUV with accessory kits. Slate unveiled it in April 2025 and currently plans first deliveries for late 2026.
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How much will the Slate truck cost?
Slate currently lists the base Blank Slate at $24,950 before the $1,450 destination charge, taxes, registration, documentation fees, government fees and options. The former below-$20,000 post-tax-credit positioning is no longer the current price.
What is the Slate truck’s range?
Slate currently projects 205 miles for the pickup using a 65-kWh LFP battery with 63 kWh of usable energy. The vehicle is still preproduction, so the figure is not a final EPA-certified range rating.
Why is the Slate truck called anti-Tesla?
The description refers to its deliberately low-tech design. Slate plans to use manual windows, physical HVAC controls, no built-in infotainment screen and an owner-supplied phone or tablet instead of the screen-heavy, software-focused layout associated with Tesla.
The Bottom Line
Slate Auto is not simply launching another electric pickup. It is testing whether buyers will accept a deliberately unfinished-feeling base vehicle in exchange for a lower starting price and extensive customization. The current reality is a $24,950 preproduction truck with a projected 205-mile range, not the sub-$20,000, 150-mile vehicle described at launch. Its success will hinge on final pricing, accessory costs, production execution and the practicality of turning the pickup into an SUV.
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