In a remarkable achievement, Slate Auto, the emerging electric vehicle (EV) startup, has secured over 100,000 reservations for its innovative electric pickup truck within just two weeks of its public debut. This milestone underscores the growing consumer interest in affordable and customizable electric vehicles.
Founded in 2022 and headquartered in Troy, Michigan, Slate Auto operated in stealth mode until April 24, 2025, when it unveiled its first product—the Slate Truck. This electric pickup truck is designed to be both affordable and adaptable, with a starting price below $20,000 after applying the $7,500 federal EV tax credit. A standout feature of the Slate Truck is its ability to transform into a five-seater SUV through a conversion kit offered by the company, providing consumers with versatility in their vehicle choice.
The rapid accumulation of reservations highlights the strong market demand for such innovative vehicles. Jeremy Snyder, Slate’s Chief Commercial Officer, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming response, stating, We are truly humbled by America’s response to Slate’s brand launch and the launch of our truck. We are excited for what the future holds.
However, it’s important to note that these reservations require a refundable $50 deposit, which may not necessarily translate into actual sales. The automotive industry has seen similar scenarios where high reservation numbers did not lead to proportional sales figures. For instance, Fisker once claimed over 60,000 reservations for its Ocean SUV but faced challenges in converting these into sales, ultimately leading to bankruptcy. Similarly, Lordstown Motors encountered legal issues for allegedly misleading investors about preorder numbers and also filed for bankruptcy.
Despite these industry precedents, Slate Auto is optimistic about its future. The company plans to manufacture the Slate Truck at a repurposed printing plant in Warsaw, Indiana, aiming to produce up to 150,000 vehicles annually by the end of 2027. This ambitious production goal is supported by significant investments from notable backers, including Jeff Bezos through his family office, Bezos Expeditions, Mark Walter, CEO of Guggenheim Partners, and venture capital firm General Catalyst.
The Slate Truck’s design and functionality have generated considerable buzz. Prior to its official announcement, Slate Auto strategically placed prototype vehicles on the streets of Venice, Los Angeles, wrapped with branding for fictitious companies. These prototypes, resembling a pickup truck, a coupe-like SUV, and a boxier SUV akin to a Land Rover Defender, sparked widespread discussion and anticipation among automotive enthusiasts and industry observers.
As Slate Auto continues to navigate the competitive EV market, its focus on affordability, customization, and strategic partnerships positions it as a promising contender in the evolving landscape of electric vehicles.
