Slate Auto CEO Chris Barman has reiterated the company’s commitment to launching its electric pickup at a mid-$20,000 starting price, reinforcing earlier claims that it aims to deliver the most affordable EV truck in the U.S. market. Pricing remains central to the startup’s strategy, and according to Barman, the company is progressing toward that goal despite ongoing supplier negotiations.
In a recent social media update, Barman acknowledged that final component discussions are still underway but emphasized that the target price has not shifted. “We’ve been working tirelessly to get the lowest price possible,” she said.
“While we’re not pencils down just yet, we’re wrapping negotiations on final parts with suppliers. We’re on track to share new info on the price in June. We think it’ll be worth the wait. And yes, the blank Slate will be in the mid-20s.”
Originally, Slate’s pickup was projected to start below $20,000, a figure that depended in part on federal EV tax incentives that have since been eliminated.
The revised mid-$20,000 estimate positions the truck below the current entry point for most new pickups. For comparison, the Ford Maverick begins at $27,145 in its base non-hybrid configuration, while the Chevrolet Silverado EV starts at $52,800.
The Slate pickup is designed with cost control in mind. The base configuration is intentionally minimalistic, featuring manual windows, no central touchscreen, and composite body panels in place of traditional paint. The company’s objective is to offer a functional, repairable, and customizable vehicle that prioritizes utility over luxury or advanced technology.
However, the viability of that stripped-down approach depends heavily on meeting the promised price. Without a meaningful cost advantage, the truck risks losing its primary competitive distinction.
If Slate succeeds in delivering a fully electric pickup in the mid-$20,000 range, it could exert pressure on both conventional and electric truck manufacturers, potentially reshaping expectations in the entry-level segment. Updated pricing details are expected in June.
