The Slate truck bypasses complexity for affordability
The Slate truck is redefining automotive minimalism by stripping away everything but the bare essentials. With a base price under $25,000, the vehicle lacks radio, speakers, and even traditional paint, opting for vinyl instead. Because the Slate truck lacks built-in cellular hardware, the company created a clever workaround for over-the-air (OTA) software updates by turning your smartphone into a bridge.
How the Slate truck manages remote updates
Rather than relying on an expensive, built-in infotainment system, the Slate truck requires the official app to facilitate system improvements. When an update is ready, the app downloads the file to your smartphone. You then plug your phone into the dashboard USB port to trigger the transfer. The process takes roughly a minute for the initial handshake, followed by 45 minutes for the vehicle to finalize the installation independently. This method ensures the Slate truck stays current without the overhead of permanent cellular connectivity.
Modular add-ons and the cost of convenience
While the base model is Spartan, the company offers a deep list of upgrades. Buyers can pay extra for components like speakers, a five-seat SUV conversion kit, or an iPad mount that mimics a traditional center screen. A fully loaded Slate truck can quickly jump above $45,000, testing the buyer’s resolve against the temptation of luxury features. Despite these add-ons, the core vehicle remains focused on short-run utility, boasting a 1,550-pound payload capacity and a 2,000-pound tow rating.
- Starting price: Under $25,000
- Max range: 205 miles
- Payload capacity: 1,550 pounds
- Update process: Smartphone-to-USB tethering
The bottom line for privacy-conscious drivers
In an industry increasingly obsessed with data harvesting, the Slate truck makes a compelling argument for simplicity. The manufacturer has explicitly stated it will not sell user app data, focusing only on necessary diagnostics and service telemetry. This stance might appeal to buyers wary of recent controversies surrounding connected car data practices. While the market for a stripped-down electric pickup remains an open question, the ability to maintain software integrity without a built-in data plan is a refreshing shift in automotive design.
For full official background and direct documentation, read the source coverage on Engadget.com Reporting.