“Slate Auto Truck: Jeff Bezos bets big on a $20K EV truck with no frills, 240-mile range, and DIY customization. Is Tesla sweating?”
The $20K “Anti-Tesla” Truck: How Jeff Bezos’ Slate Auto Is Rewriting the EV Rulebook
Imagine a world where electric trucks aren’t just for tech bros and millionaires. A world where you can buy a brand-new EV pickup for less than a used Honda Civic. Jeff Bezos just made that world real—and Tesla’s Cybertruck might finally have a rival it can’t ignore.
The “Blank Slate” Revolution: What Makes This Truck Different?
Called the “anti-Tesla” by TechCrunch, Slate Auto’s EV pickup is a minimalist, budget-friendly truck built for Americans. Starting at $19,999 after federal tax credits, it’s the first electric truck to break the under-$20K barrier — a milestone even Elon Musk’s long-promised $25K Tesla hasn’t achieved.
But here’s the twist: This truck isn’t finished when you buy it.
- No paint job: Ships in raw gray composite; add a vinyl wrap for $500+.
- No infotainment: Just a phone dock and Bluetooth speaker compatibility.
- Crank windows: Manual everything to keep costs down.
Why It Works: Slate bets buyers will prioritize customization over convenience. With 100+ accessories—from SUV conversion kits to solar roof panels—it’s the LEGO of trucks. CEO Chris Barman calls it “radically simple,” but critics argue it’s too bare-bones for mainstream America.
Slate vs. Tesla Cybertruck: The “David vs. Goliath” Showdown
Let’s get real: Slate’s truck won’t out-muscle the Cybertruck. But it doesn’t need to.
| Feature | Slate Truck | Tesla Cybertruck |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $19,999 (post-credit) | $79,990+ |
| Range | 150–240 miles | 340–500 miles |
| Towing | 1,000 lbs | 11,000 lbs |
| Customization | 100+ DIY accessories | Limited Tesla upgrades |
| Vibe | “Back-to-basics utilitarian” | “Dystopian spaceship” |
The Catch: Slate’s base model lacks even basic features like power locks and a radio. But for urban millennials or small-business owners, its 7-cubic-foot “frunk” (perfect for tailgate beers) and 5-foot bed could be game-changers.
Where Slate Falls Short: The Trade-Offs
- Range Anxiety: The base 150-mile range trails the Nissan Leaf (149–212 miles) and Ford Maverick Hybrid (500+ miles).
- No AWD Option: Unlike the Maverick or Rivian R1T, Slate’s rear-wheel-drive setup limits off-road appeal.
- DIY Fatigue: Transforming it into an SUV requires buying a $2K+ kit and installing it yourself.
J.D. Power’s Take: “Will Americans accept a truck with no screens? We’re about to find out”
Bezos vs. Musk: The Billionaire EV War Heats Up
This isn’t just about trucks—it’s personal. Bezos (via his $111M investment) is taking direct aim at Musk’s EV empire. While Tesla struggles with Cybertruck delays and sinking sales, Slate’s Midwest factory (rumored in Indiana) could churn out 50K trucks annually by 2027.
Why It Matters: Slate’s success really depends on the $7,500 federal tax credit. If Congress decides to take it away, the truck’s price would jump to $27,500 — putting it head-to-head with bigger names like the Hyundai Kona EV and Chevy Equinox EV.
Who Should Buy This Truck?
- Minimalists: No frills = no distractions.
- DIY Enthusiasts: Turn it into a camper, food truck, or SUV.
- City Dwellers: At 174 inches long, it’s shorter than a Subaru Crosstrek.
Who Should Avoid It: Anyone needing to tow heavy loads or craving Tesla-level tech.
Disruptive or Delusional?
Slate’s truck isn’t perfect—but it’s different. In a market bloated with $80K “luxury” EVs, Bezos’ gamble could democratize electric mobility. As one Reddit user quipped: “Finally, an EV for the rest of us.”
The Bottom Line: If Slate delivers on its 2026 promise, the EV landscape might never look the same. Tesla, consider this your wake-up call.
Slate Auto Truck – Slate Car Photos 4K
Tags: Slate Car, Slate Auto Truck, Bezos-backed Slate Auto, Affordable EV Truck, Anti-Tesla, Electric Pickup, Slate Truck vs Ford Maverick, EV Tax Credit, Customizable Electric Vehicle