Slate Auto: The Bezos-Backed EV Startup - Everything You Need to Know

Slate Auto: A New Contender in the EV Pickup Market

Emerging from a period of secrecy, Slate Auto publicly launched in April 2025, immediately generating significant attention within the automotive sector.

This new venture, backed by funding from Jeff Bezos, aims to produce a highly affordable and customizable electric pickup truck.

Remarkably, Slate Auto conducted its operations discreetly for three years in Troy, Michigan, a location in close proximity to established automotive giants such as Ford and General Motors.

Initial Reports and Public Awareness

The initial reporting on Slate Auto’s existence came from TechCrunch in early April.

Their coverage detailed the company’s connection to the Amazon founder and highlighted its distinctive and unconventional business approach.

Following this initial report, the period leading up to Slate’s official public debut in late April was marked by a flurry of activity.

Prototypes of the startup’s truck were observed in various locations throughout California, further fueling public interest.

A Unique Position in the EV Landscape

Slate Auto represents an unusual case within the U.S. electric vehicle (EV) industry.

The sector has experienced numerous bankruptcies, unsuccessful product launches, and strategic shifts.

Despite these challenges, Slate’s current financial support, leadership team, initial product offering, and business strategy suggest a promising trajectory.

However, significant obstacles remain as the company progresses towards its anticipated production start in late 2026.

Key Information and Timeline

The following provides a comprehensive overview of Slate Auto, encompassing its origins, investors, product details, business model, and manufacturing plans.

• Origin Story: Slate Auto operated in stealth mode for three years.
• Location: The company is based in Troy, Michigan.
• Funding: The startup has received financial backing from Jeff Bezos.
• Product: Slate Auto is developing an ultra-cheap, customizable electric pickup truck.
• Production Target: The company aims to begin production in late 2026.

A Covertly Funded EV Venture: Slate Auto Revealed

April 8 – A year-long inquiry by TechCrunch has brought to light the existence of Slate Auto, a previously undisclosed electric vehicle startup. The investigation confirmed that the company has been operating for three years, supported financially by Jeff Bezos and Mark Walter, principal owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Slate Auto distinguishes itself from other emerging EV companies through its focus on creating a remarkably affordable electric pickup truck. The anticipated starting price for this vehicle is approximately $25,000.

A key aspect of Slate’s strategy involves a high degree of customization. This approach draws upon the expertise of former personnel from Harley-Davidson and Chrysler.

Both Harley-Davidson and Chrysler possess significant experience in the realm of vehicle accessories and aftermarket components, knowledge that Slate Auto intends to utilize effectively.

The Vision Behind Slate Auto

The company’s objective is to disrupt the electric vehicle market by offering a competitively priced pickup truck. This vehicle is designed to appeal to a broad customer base.

Leveraging the backgrounds of its team members, Slate Auto aims to establish a robust ecosystem of aftermarket options. This will allow owners to personalize their trucks to a significant extent.

Key Backers and Their Involvement

Jeff Bezos’s investment in Slate Auto signals a strong belief in the company’s potential. His support provides crucial resources for development and scaling.

Mark Walter, through his ownership of the LA Dodgers, brings business acumen and financial stability to the venture. His involvement further strengthens Slate Auto’s position.

• Financial Backing: Jeff Bezos and Mark Walter are the primary investors.
• Vehicle Focus: Development centers on a low-cost electric pickup truck.
• Customization: Extensive personalization options are a core feature.
• Expertise: The team includes veterans from Harley-Davidson and Chrysler.

The revelation of Slate Auto’s existence adds another layer of competition to the rapidly evolving EV landscape. It demonstrates the continued interest and investment in affordable electric transportation solutions.

Slate Auto’s Pickup Truck Observed During Testing

April 10 – A photograph of an uncamouflaged electric pickup truck began appearing online, specifically on the r/whatisthiscar subreddit. Users quickly theorized that the vehicle might be the previously unrevealed EV from Slate Auto.

Confirmation from TechCrunch verified that the image depicted a prototype of Slate’s truck. The vehicle was observed parked at the company’s design facility located in Long Beach, California.

Initial Observations and Speculation

The truck's appearance sparked considerable discussion among online automotive enthusiasts. Redditors attempted to identify the manufacturer based on subtle design cues.

The circulating photo provided the first tangible glimpse of Slate Auto’s entry into the electric pickup truck market.

Verification of Prototype Identity

TechCrunch’s investigation successfully established a link between the photographed vehicle and Slate Auto’s ongoing development efforts.

This confirmation validates the speculation surrounding the truck’s potential as Slate’s upcoming electric offering.

A Transformative EV: Slate's Modular Design

April 21 – Slate has initiated public road tests of prototype Slate EV vehicles as a strategic marketing maneuver leading up to their official unveiling on April 24.

Notably, several observed models deviated from a standard pickup truck configuration, exhibiting styling cues reminiscent of SUVs or hatchbacks.

Confirmed Modular Capabilities

According to reports from TechCrunch, the Slate EV has been engineered with “Transformer-like” modularity.

This public display of varied vehicle forms serves as a deliberate teaser, highlighting the vehicle’s potential for extensive customization.

The company intends to showcase the adaptability of the EV before its formal launch.

• The Slate EV is being tested in multiple body styles.
• These tests are designed to build anticipation for the April 24 launch event.
• Modularity is a key feature of the vehicle’s design.

Slate’s approach suggests a vehicle capable of adapting to diverse needs and preferences.

Slate's Unique Approach to Electric Pickup Trucks: A Counterpoint to Tesla

April 24th marked the unveiling of Slate’s electric pickup truck at a launch event held in Long Beach, California. The company showcased a vehicle designed with extensive customization options.

Slate simultaneously announced a target price point of under $20,000 for the truck, factoring in the potential $7,500 federal EV tax credit.

A Minimalist Base Model

The initial configuration of the Slate truck is decidedly spartan. It offers a range of 150 miles on a single charge.

Notably, the base model forgoes features commonly found in modern vehicles, such as power windows and a central infotainment display. Even exterior paint is omitted.

Customization as a Core Principle

Slate emphasizes that nearly every aspect of the truck will be user-configurable. This extends to details like seating capacity and the vehicle’s overall shape.

The company intends to allow buyers to tailor the truck to their specific needs and preferences, offering a level of personalization not typically seen in the automotive market.

Former Indiana Printing Facility Targeted for Electric Vehicle Truck Manufacturing

Reports from TechCrunch indicate that Slate has pinpointed a previously utilized printing plant in Warsaw, Indiana, as the prospective site for its truck production facility.

The expansive 1.4 million-square-foot building originally constructed in 1958 has remained unoccupied for approximately two years.

Facility Details and Historical Context

This location represents a significant development in Slate’s manufacturing plans. The plant’s considerable size offers ample space for the assembly and production of electric vehicles.

Having been inactive since around 2022, the facility will require refurbishment and adaptation to meet the specific demands of modern truck manufacturing processes.

The choice of Warsaw, Indiana, suggests a strategic consideration of logistics and access to the automotive supply chain. It also potentially benefits from regional incentives for EV production.

Slate's Expansion and Future Outlook

Slate’s decision to establish a manufacturing base in Indiana underscores the growing trend of electric vehicle production expanding beyond traditional automotive hubs.

The company’s investment in this facility is expected to generate employment opportunities within the Warsaw community and contribute to the local economy.

Further details regarding the timeline for facility upgrades and the commencement of production are anticipated in the coming months.

Slate Auto Exceeds 100,000 Refundable Reservations Within Two Weeks

May 12 – Slate has verified with TechCrunch that it has exceeded 100,000 refundable reservations for its competitively priced electric vehicle truck, each backed by a $50 deposit.

This achievement demonstrates significant public interest in the company’s concepts. Remarkably, Slate was largely unknown just two months ago.

Rapid Growth and Market Response

The quick accumulation of reservations serves as strong validation of Slate’s approach to the EV market.

It indicates a substantial demand for an affordable electric truck option among consumers.

Significance of the Reservation Numbers

Reaching this milestone in such a short timeframe is particularly noteworthy.

It suggests that Slate has effectively captured the attention of a broad consumer base.

Looking Ahead

• The company is now focused on transitioning these reservations into actual vehicle orders.
• Further details regarding production timelines and vehicle specifications are anticipated.
• Slate’s success highlights the growing appetite for innovative EV solutions.

Reservations are currently refundable, providing customers with flexibility.

The company’s swift rise is a testament to the potential within the emerging EV truck segment.

Slate Auto Adjusts Pricing Following Federal EV Tax Credit Phase-Out

A significant tax-cut bill enacted during the Trump administration included a provision that terminated the $7,500 federal tax credit for electric vehicles as of September. Consequently, Slate Auto is revising its pricing strategy.

Impact on Slate’s Vehicle Pricing

Previously, Slate Auto had advertised a starting price of “under $20,000” for its electric truck, factoring in the availability of the federal EV tax credit. With the credit’s expiration, this pricing is no longer sustainable.

The company proactively removed the “under $20,000” claim from its website in anticipation of the bill’s enactment, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to transparency.

• The $7,500 federal EV tax credit was discontinued due to legislation passed under the Trump administration.
• Slate Auto’s initial pricing projections relied on customers being able to utilize this credit.
• The company has adjusted its marketing materials to reflect the change in available incentives.

This adjustment highlights the influence of government policy on the electric vehicle market and the pricing strategies of emerging manufacturers like Slate Auto.

Slauson & Co.’s Early Investment in Slate Auto

Slate Auto’s 2023 funding series saw participation from a minimum of 16 investors, notably including Bezos. Though the identities of the majority remain undisclosed, Slauson & Co., a venture capital firm headquartered in Los Angeles, has detailed its rationale for supporting the electric vehicle startup during both its initial funding round and subsequent Series B.

Initial Investment Rationale

Slauson & Co. explained to TechCrunch the factors that led to their decision to invest in Slate Auto from the outset. Their assessment focused on the potential of the company and its position within the evolving EV market.

The firm recognized key opportunities and a strong business model within Slate Auto’s approach. This conviction prompted their participation in the early stages of the company’s growth.

Continued Support Through Series B

Demonstrating continued confidence, Slauson & Co. further solidified its commitment by also investing in Slate Auto’s Series B funding round.

This subsequent investment underscores their belief in the company’s long-term viability and potential for success. It signifies a sustained partnership aimed at fostering innovation within the electric vehicle sector.