Slate Auto Pickup Truck Spotted: Bezos-Backed EV Startup

Slate Auto's Electric Pickup Truck Spotted

Following TechCrunch’s report regarding Jeff Bezos’ investment in the EV startup Slate Auto, an initial version of the company’s affordable electric pickup truck has been observed during testing.

Initial Sighting and Reporting

A photograph of a compact, dark gray, two-seater pickup truck being unloaded from a transport vehicle was shared on the r/whatisthiscar subreddit by user u/discostranger09. The sighting occurred in the Los Angeles region, near the user’s workplace. Automotive news sources, including Carscoops and The Autopian, were the first to report on the image.

Vehicle Confirmation and Purpose

According to an individual directly involved in Slate Auto’s vehicle design, the truck in the photograph is indeed a Slate Auto prototype. This source, who requested anonymity, indicated the vehicle is likely a concept model used to attract investors. These investors include the principal owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, and presentations are held at the company’s design facility in Long Beach, California.

Design and Styling

The truck’s design is straightforward, featuring a grille reminiscent of the current Ford Bronco Sport. Visual similarities to a scaled-down and simplified Rivian R1T are also apparent. This is noteworthy as Slate’s exterior design lead previously worked at Rivian.

However, the vehicle intentionally lacks elaborate design elements.

Business Model and Pricing

As previously reported by TechCrunch, Slate Auto aims to market the truck at a competitive price point of approximately $25,000. The company intends to generate revenue through the sale of extensive customization options and accessories.

Slate Auto has trademarked the phrase “WE BUILT IT. YOU MAKE IT,” suggesting a focus on personalization. Job postings have also alluded to a “Slate University” program, potentially offering customization training or services.

"Blank Slate" Trademark and Future Plans

An additional, previously unreported Slate Auto trademark is “Blank Slate.” This term may be used to designate the base model of the truck before any customer-selected customizations are applied.

Despite being weeks away from a public launch, the company has not yet finalized a name for the truck. A request for comment from Slate Auto was not immediately answered.