DriversRecommendedOutdated drivers can make a good PC feel brokenScan driver issues before chasing fixes manually.Scan NowOctober DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsSlow PC?RecommendedPC slow today? Run a repair scan before it gets worseResolve common Windows issues and optimize system performance.Scan Now×
Skip to content
CarCodyAdvertise
Service recordThe Garage

Slate’s Tiny Electric Pickup Has Big Truck Energy—With Important Caveats

Slate’s compact electric pickup combines a stripped-back, customizable design with announced payload and towing ratings. Its price, projected range and capability figures remain announcement-era claims for a preproduction truck.
Entry783 Date Time4 min MechanicCarCody Team
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Slate’s compact, two-seat electric pickup pairs a deliberately basic cabin with announced ratings of 1,550 pounds of payload and up to 2,000 pounds of towing. Those are serious figures for a small truck, but they are manufacturer claims for a preproduction vehicle—not results from independent hauling tests. Slate projected 205 miles of range and announced a $24,950 starting MSRP on June 24, 2026; neither figure tells the whole ownership story.

What “big truck energy” means here

The Slate Truck’s appeal is the contrast: a small, minimalist pickup intended for customization, with useful stated carrying and towing capacity. “Big truck energy” is a description of that mix, not evidence that it can match a full-size pickup in capability. Its two-seat pickup configuration is also distinct from the optional five-seat SUV conversion described in announcement coverage.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Slate’s June 24, 2026 release described the vehicle as preproduction. Its numbers should therefore be read as announced specifications and projections, not as independently verified production-vehicle results.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

How much will the Slate electric truck cost?

Slate announced a $24,950 MSRP for the pickup on June 24, 2026. The company says that price excludes destination, taxes, title, registration, governmental fees, documentation fees, and optional equipment. It is a starting MSRP, not an all-in transaction price. Slate’s release also said its Marketplace would offer more than 200 accessories, with over 80% priced below $500; those optional items are separate from the announced base price. Slate Auto’s June 24 announcement

The base-truck price does not by itself show what a buyer would pay after fees or customization. No complete, like-for-like competitor comparison is established here, so the announcement alone does not support calling the Slate the market’s cheapest truck.

How far can the Slate Truck go on a charge?

Slate projects 205 miles of range for the Blank Slate Truck. The company says that figure is based on an approximation of the EPA test cycle and is not an official EPA estimate. It is not a certified range rating or a promise of what an owner will achieve; actual range varies with driving and other conditions. Slate Auto’s announcement

Rank #2
KiNSMART - 2019 Dodge Ram 1500 Pickup 1:46 O Scale 5" Die Cast Metal Model Toy Truck (White)
  • SCALE DETAILS: Precisely crafted 1:46 O scale die-cast metal model of the 2019 Dodge Ram 1500 pickup truck, measuring approximately 5 inches in length
  • AUTHENTIC DESIGN: Features detailed black exterior finish, realistic wheels, and accurate body styling matching the full-size 2019 Ram 1500 truck
  • CONSTRUCTION: Built with durable die-cast metal construction and high-quality plastic components for long-lasting play value
  • DISPLAY QUALITY: Perfect for collectors and enthusiasts, with authentic detailing including grille, headlights, and body contours
  • RECOMMENDED AGE: Suitable for ages 3 years and up, makes an ideal gift for truck enthusiasts and young collectors

Ars Technica reported a 65-kWh gross, 63-kWh usable lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack and a single rear motor rated at 181 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. These are specifications reported around the announcement, not independently measured performance from a production truck. Ars Technica’s June 24 passenger-ride report

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

How much can the Slate pickup carry and tow?

Announced measure Slate’s figure What it establishes
Payload 1,550 pounds Slate’s announced payload capacity; not an independently demonstrated loaded-hauling result.
Maximum towing Up to 2,000 pounds Slate’s announced maximum tow rating; not an independently demonstrated towing result.

These ratings make the truck’s carrying-and-towing promise notable, but a rating is not the same as a test of how the vehicle behaves under load. Road & Track’s John Pearley Huffman cautioned that his brief passenger ride did not show how it would perform carrying a load, with the heavier SUV body, or with passengers and gear. Road & Track’s June 25 passenger-ride account

Rank #3
Matchbox 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning Black, 1:64 Scale Diecast Model
  • Precision-Crafted: Maychbox's 1:64 scale model captures the sleek design of the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning with meticulous attention to detail.
  • Realistic Replica: Featuring authentic styling cues and a striking black finish, this die-cast model accurately represents the iconic electric pickup truck.
  • Collectible Piece: With a production run of just 28/100 units, this limited-edition model is a must-have for avid collectors and Ford enthusiasts alike.
  • Compact Size: Measuring approximately 3 inches in length, this 1:64 scale model is a perfect desktop display or addition to any collection.
  • Authentic Branding: Officially licensed by Ford, this model showcases the automaker's branding and emblem for an authentic representation.

What comes with the minimalist cabin?

Announcement-era reporting describes a screen-free dashboard and manual crank windows, with a phone serving for navigation. That keeps the base concept sparse, while Slate’s Marketplace accessories and vehicle customization offer ways to add features or change the vehicle’s look. Slate said the Marketplace would have more than 200 accessories, over 80% under $500. Those are company figures about its planned offering, not a guarantee that every desired feature will be included in the base truck. Ars Technica Slate Auto

A phone mount may be a practical generic accessory for a phone-based navigation setup, but no particular mount’s fit or compatibility with the Slate has been established. Buyers should confirm fit before choosing one.

Rank #4
1/24 Large Toy Truck - FUBARBAR Model Car, 1:24 Diecast Toy Pickup for Kids Boys 3+ Years - Electric Metal Drivable Truck with Sound, Light, and Pull-Back Action
  • 1:24 SCALE MODEL: This collectible toy truck measures 9.1" x 3.03" x 2.4" Inches and weighs 18 ounces. Immerse yourself in the toy truck experience with stunning detail in 1/24 scale. These photos capture its realism perfectly, making it a must-have for all toy truck enthusiasts.
  • HIGH QUALITY & DURABILITY: Crafted from zinc alloy and ABS plastic, this toy pickup truck boasts exceptional durability. The zinc alloy body ensures authenticity, while ABS plastic components guarantee longevity. Equipped with lights and sounds, simply press the front wheels or open the front door to activate engine sounds and lights.
  • COLLECTIBLE GIFTS: Packaged in a beautifully designed color box, it makes for an ideal gift. Whether for play, desk decoration, or collection, this meticulously crafted toy truck is sure to impress. Its high-quality build makes it perfect for kids and collectors alike.
  • DIVERSE FUNCTIONS: Enjoy the pull-back function of the rear wheels, allowing the truck to run forward after a short pull. Additionally, trigger sound and light effects by pressing the car body or opening the front door, creating an immersive experience that lasts.
  • SERVICES: Rest assured with our comprehensive warranty. Should you encounter any issues with our Toy Model Car Toy Trucks, simply reach out through Amazon's messaging system. We offer a hassle-free refund or replacement within 24 hours.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Is the Slate Truck available yet?

As of Slate’s June 24, 2026 release, the truck was in preproduction and the company expected first deliveries in Q4 2026. That is a company forecast, not confirmation that deliveries have occurred or will take place on schedule. Slate Auto’s release

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Slate also reported more than 180,000 reservation holders. That is a company-reported reservation count, not completed sales. CEO Peter Faricy said in the release, “More than 180,000 reservation holders have told us they’re ready for a vehicle that’s affordable, reliable, and built around their lives.” The statement reflects the company’s characterization; it does not establish reliability through owner experience or long-term testing.

What the early rides can—and can’t—tell you

Ars Technica’s Roberto Baldwin reported riding as a passenger because Slate would not let him drive the truck. He described the preproduction vehicle as composed over bumps during a brief ride. Road & Track’s Huffman also described a short passenger ride and cautioned against drawing broad conclusions from it. Neither account is a road test or an independent evaluation of the announced range, payload, or towing capacity.

The cited announcement and ride coverage do not establish production readiness, independently measured range, loaded towing performance, long-term reliability, crash-test results, or final EPA certification. Until those are established, the useful distinction is between Slate’s announced specifications and verified results.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More from the Garage

  1. Entry001Date09 OCT 26Time3 minWhich Brake Pad Should You Buy From RockAuto or Elsewhere?Section: Blog
  2. Entry002Date09 OCT 26Time5 minThe Pros and Cons of Touchless Car Wash SystemsSection: Blog
  3. Entry003Date09 OCT 26Time3 minCan a Trickle Charger or Battery Tender Properly Charge a Car Battery?Section: Blog

Thanks for visiting Carcody

Carcody.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.co

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You DownFree scan - exact matches
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?Free scan - under a minute

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.