Key facts
- The Slate truck starts at $24,950, with delivery fees bringing the base price to over $26,000.
- Optional add-ons include a 'squareback SUV kit' for a second-row seat, integrated speaker system, and locking tailgate.
- The 'squareback SUV kit' increases seating capacity from two to five people and raises the price to $29,950.
- The integrated speaker system costs $250, and a locking tailgate is $100.
- Bike rack accessories and a tow hitch add $700.
- A fully customized 'dream build' with numerous accessories can reach nearly $35,000.
The Slate truck is intentionally designed with a minimalist, 'bare-bones' interior, challenging the trend of increasingly complex and expensive modern vehicles. Its base model starts at $24,950, with delivery fees pushing it slightly higher. The company's business model relies on customers purchasing physical add-ons from its accessory marketplace to customize the vehicle to their needs and preferences, rather than relying on software subscriptions or integrated features.
During a test drive of a prototype, the truck was found to be surprisingly roomy, balanced, and enjoyable to drive. However, the experience also highlighted which modern conveniences would be missed in such a stripped-down vehicle. Essential upgrades identified by the author include the 'squareback SUV kit' to add a second-row bench, increasing seating capacity to five and raising the price to $29,950. Other necessary additions for personal use were an integrated speaker system ($250), a locking tailgate ($100), and accessories for a bike rack ($700), bringing the total to approximately $31,000 before taxes and destination fees.
For those with a larger budget, Slate offers more extravagant customization options. A 'dream build' could include various body wraps, accent colors, a spare tire, upgraded bumpers, fender flares, running boards, and a roof rack, totaling an additional $2,374.94. This approach allows buyers to create a unique vehicle, reminiscent of older 'personality cars' like the Volkswagen Beetle or Chrysler PT Cruiser, in contrast to the often indistinguishable designs of contemporary SUVs.