Bezos-Backed Slate Auto Unveils Electric Pickup Truck: Spotted in Action!
In a thrilling development for electric vehicle (EV) enthusiasts, a secretive startup named Slate Auto, backed by Jeff Bezos, has made headlines. Just a day after its mention in TechCrunch, an early prototype of Slate’s affordable electric pickup truck was spotted in Los Angeles, generating buzz within the automotive community.
First Sightings of Slate Auto’s Electric Pickup Truck
On Wednesday, Reddit user u/discostranger09 shared a photo in the r/whatisthiscar subreddit, showcasing a small, dark gray two-seater pickup truck on a flatbed. The user reported that the vehicle was being unloaded from a container near their office in Los Angeles, drawing attention from several automotive news outlets, including Carscoops and The Autopian.
Design Insights from Industry Experts
According to an anonymous source familiar with Slate Auto’s vehicle design, the truck is indeed the prototype that the startup has been developing. This individual revealed that the truck is likely one of the concept models intended to attract investors, including notable figures such as the controlling owner of the LA Dodgers, at their design studio located in Long Beach, California.
- Simplistic Styling: The truck features a minimalist design, reminiscent of the grille on the modern Ford Bronco Sport.
- Comparative Analysis: Its appearance is somewhat similar to the smaller Rivian R1T, an interesting fact considering Slate’s head of exterior design previously worked at Rivian.
- Intention Behind Design: The straightforward design approach aligns with the company’s objective to offer a budget-friendly EV.
Affordable Pricing and Customization Options
As reported by TechCrunch, Slate Auto aims to revolutionize the EV market with its low-cost electric pickup truck, priced at approximately $25,000. The company plans to enhance its revenue through upselling various customization options and accessories.
Slate Auto has filed for a trademark on the slogan “WE BUILT IT. YOU MAKE IT”, indicating a focus on personalization. Additionally, job listings have hinted at a potential customization program dubbed “Slate University.”
Future Branding and Model Names
Another intriguing trademark application by Slate is for the term “Blank Slate,” which may refer to the base model of the truck before any customer-driven modifications are made. Despite being on the verge of unveiling more details, it remains unclear if Slate Auto has finalized a name for their electric pickup truck. The company has yet to respond to inquiries regarding this matter.
As Slate Auto prepares to exit stealth mode, the automotive world eagerly anticipates more details about their innovative electric pickup. Stay tuned for updates as this exciting story unfolds!
