The Jeff Bezos-backed Slate Automotive has officially launched in the United States with its first EV offering—an electric pickup that can convert to an SUV.
Most impressively, the electric pickup is set to be America’s cheapest EV yet when it’s released in late 2026, with a price tag of just US$27,500—approximately AU$44,000.
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The entry-level two-door, two-seat pickup dubbed ‘Slate’ will set American buyers back just US$20,000 after incentives, making it even cheaper than the thrifty Nissan Leaf, which is priced at US$29,280 before incentives.
“The definition of what’s affordable is broken,” Slate CEO Chris Barman said.
“Slate exists to put the power back in the hands of customers who have been ignored by the auto industry. Slate is a radical truck platform so customisable that it can transform from a 2-seat pickup to a 5-seat SUV.”
Slate buyers can customise their ride with more than 100 accessories. A flat-pack accessory SUV kit turns the truck into a 5-seat SUV complete with a roll cage, airbags, and rear seat.
The company says Slate will be made in America at a reindustrialised factory. This is an interesting point, given Slate Automotive backer and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos donated to US President Donald Trump’s re-election campaign in 2024.
Trump yesterday signed a proclamation to protect national security by incentivising domestic automobile production and reducing American reliance on imports of foreign automobiles and their parts.
Related article: New EV sales hit all-time high in Australia
Refundable vehicle reservations are now being offered at US$50.
Slate Automotive is yet to confirm if its flagship EV will be made available in Australia or any other countries.
