Get ready to rethink everything you know about electric vehicles, because Slate Auto is about to shake up the industry—again. Imagine a fully customizable electric pickup truck starting in the mid-$20k range. Sounds too good to be true? Well, Slate Auto is betting big on making it a reality. But here’s where it gets controversial: with federal tax incentives largely gone, can they really deliver on that promise? Let’s dive in.
Slate Auto, the bold American EV startup, just dropped a tantalizing video on social media, teasing the June reveal of its flagship ‘Blank Slate’ electric pickup’s pricing. If you’re not already familiar, Slate is rewriting the playbook for EV design, development, and customization. Their approach? Start with a stripped-down, bare-bones pickup—think the most basic passenger vehicle you can imagine—and then let buyers fully customize it. Whether through Slate’s online ‘Maker’ tool or even at home with a 3D printer, the possibilities are endless. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about functionality, from turning the truck into a tailgate party hub to transforming it into a BMX skate ramp.
When Slate first emerged in 2025, they aimed for a jaw-dropping price below $20,000 after tax incentives. But with those incentives largely eliminated, the question on everyone’s mind is: where does that leave the pricing now? Slate’s CEO, Chris Barman, recently hinted in a lighthearted Instagram video that they’re working tirelessly with suppliers to keep costs down. The result? A mid-$20k starting price is still on the table, according to their comments. But here’s the bold question: is this sustainable, or are we looking at a compromise in quality? Let’s discuss in the comments.
Slate’s social media presence is worth a follow—trust me. From showcasing custom components designed by unique artists to bizarre experiments like filling the frunk with caulk or French onion dip (yes, really), they’re not your typical automaker. Remember the engineer who licked the truck’s hood? That’s Slate for you—unconventional, daring, and unapologetically innovative.
While today’s video didn’t spill all the beans, it confirmed what we’ve been waiting for: the ‘Blank Slate’ EV’s pricing will go public in late June. And yes, ‘mid-twenties’ is the magic number. If they pull this off, Slate could deliver the most affordable US-built EV ever. But here’s the kicker: what features (or lack thereof) will that price include? No speakers? No screens? Is this minimalism genius or a step too far? Share your thoughts below.
Mark your calendars for late June—that’s when we’ll get the official MSRP and all the details. As of January 2026, Slate is still on track to start deliveries by year-end. Exciting? Absolutely. Controversial? You bet. One thing’s for sure: all eyes are on Slate Auto to see if they can turn this ambitious vision into reality. What do you think—game-changer or too good to be true? Let the debate begin!
