The Slate Truck is a unique vehicle that ships from the factory as a bare-bones two-seat pickup in a single color, slate gray. However, the fun begins when you customize it with a catalog of over 200 add-ons. A writer who configured their ideal throwback build chose a “1970s Ford Bronco” theme, blending old trucks with a modern EV.
Although the bare-bones version starts at $24,950, adding enough accessories to transform the Slate into something that fits your vision can increase the price significantly. The writer’s build, which includes a squareback SUV conversion, a roll cage, extra airbags, and a bench seat for three, brings the starting price up to $29,950 before accessories.
The writer chose a Michigan Copper full wrap for $670 as the base color, which evokes late ’70s stylings. They also added a Throwback body decal for $320 and Creamsicle shoulder decals for $190 to sell the nostalgic look. Other additions include “Dots” plates for the front lamps, taillights, and grille, as well as an upgraded front bumper and rear bumper.
Customizing the Slate Truck
The writer’s build also features fog lights, fender flares, a spare tire carrier, and running boards. A lift kit, which reportedly adds about two inches of height, was paired with all-terrain tires on 17-inch wheels for $1,100. However, it’s essential to note that this rear-wheel-drive truck is better suited to dirt roads and snowy driveways than steep trails or deep mud.
A boxy, ’70s-style vehicle without a roof rack looks incomplete, so the writer added a squareback roof rack for $650 on Slate’s T-rail for $125. The automaker also sells carriers for bikes, kayaks, skis, and paddleboards that attach to it. The roof rack completes the look, but it’s essential to consider the vehicle’s range, estimated at 205 miles for the base pickup, which may be even worse for the heavier SUV.
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Inside, the writer chose a Throwback interior decal for $50 and Magma accents on the lower dash and climate knobs, which call back to the exterior side stripe. They also added a center console, door cubby organizers, and all-weather floor liners for the front and back of the cabin. The Slate ships with no screen or stereo by default, but the writer added a center speaker and a pair of front left and right speakers for $400.
Accessories and Pricing
The writer’s build includes several other accessories, such as Bluetooth steering wheel controls and a tablet mount. The writer’s build approaches $40,000 and will get even more expensive after accounting for Slate’s as-yet-unpriced accessories.
Despite the higher price, the writer’s build is a highly specific truck that’s entirely theirs, with every piece chosen to fit their vision. The minimal build, which starts at under $25,000 before taxes and fees, is also an option for those who want a more budget-friendly choice.
Additional Accessories and Features
In addition to the accessories already mentioned, the Slate Truck can also be equipped with a home charger, which allows owners to fully charge the vehicle in five to eight hours. The company also plans to sell adapters for older public chargers, making it easier for owners to charge their vehicles on the go.