The Slate Truck modular electric pickup turned out to be more expensive and better than expected

The Slate Truck electric pickup has seen a significant price increase even before its official launch. The modular vehicle's starting price was approximately 25% higher than expected, but the manufacturer also updated its specifications, increasing its range and cargo capacity.

While the startup promised a starting price of around $20,000 during its announcement last year, taking into account the federal tax incentive in the United States, the base version is now priced at $24,950, and the off-road version at $29,950.

One of the major changes was a new lithium-iron-phosphate battery with a capacity of 65 kWh, up from the previously stated 240 km. This increased the pickup's range to approximately 330 km (208 mi), compared to the previous 240 km (158 mi). However, the single electric motor's output was reduced from 201 to 181 horsepower, though torque remained the same at 264 Nm (188 lb-ft). Acceleration to 100 km/h (62 mph) still takes around eight seconds, and the top speed is approximately 145 km/h (90 mph).

The manufacturer also increased the pickup's payload capacity to 703 kg, and its maximum towing capacity to 907 kg. The SUV version is slightly inferior in these figures.

One of the project's key features remains its modular design. After purchase, owners will be able to transform the pickup into an SUV with a variety of body styles, as well as choose from over 175 branded accessories. Furthermore, the company will offer over a hundred vinyl wrap options for the body—all vehicles will be available only in gray, and a full wrap, according to the manufacturer, will cost less than $500.

As before, the Slate relies on a minimalist design: the car has no built-in multimedia screen, uses physical controls, and instead of a built-in system, it offers the option to connect a smartphone or tablet.

Deliveries of the Slate Truck and Slate SUV are scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of this year. Buyers are also promised a 10-year or 177,000-kilometer warranty on the battery and powertrain.