How the Slate Truck Stacks Up to Today’s Small Pickups
In a market where even the cheapest new cars hover near $30,000, a minimalist electric truck promising a sub-$20K price tag sounds almost too good to be true. But that’s the idea behind the Slate Truck, an EV platform built around affordability, function, and user-driven customization. With production planned for 2027 and over 100,000 preorders already, it’s time to take a serious look at how Slate compares to what you can drive today — and whether it’s worth the wait.
What Makes the Slate Truck Different?
Where most automakers pack on the features and mark up the price, Slate strips things down to the essentials. The base model comes as a two-seater with a 5-foot truck bed, a 7-cubic-foot front trunk (frunk), rear-wheel drive, and an optional extended battery. Standard range clocks in at 150 miles, while a larger battery pushes that up to 240 miles.
- Starting Price (with incentives): ~$20,000
- Estimated Range: 150–240 miles
- Powertrain: 201 hp single motor
- Towing Capacity: 1,000 lbs
- Payload: 1,400 lbs
The biggest twist? Slate’s body arrives unpainted, ready for wraps, add-ons, or even a full SUV conversion kit. It’s not about features — it’s about freedom to modify on your terms. This makes the Slate Truck particularly attractive to tradespeople, modders, and cost-sensitive fleet managers.
How Does It Compare to the Ford Maverick?
At first glance, the Ford Maverick looks like the more traditional value play. It’s currently available, has solid resale, and offers a hybrid drivetrain with impressive fuel economy — up to 38 mpg combined.
- Starting Price: ~$25,000
- Powertrain Options: Hybrid or 2.0L turbo
- Towing Capacity: Up to 4,000 lbs
- Payload: 1,500 lbs
Where the Maverick shines in practicality, it lacks customization. What you see on the lot is what you get. In contrast, Slate’s appeal lies in starting basic and letting the user dictate upgrades over time — a modular, low-pressure ownership experience.
Is the Hyundai Santa Cruz a Better All-Rounder?
The Hyundai Santa Cruz plays in a similar price range but takes a more refined approach. Think of it as an SUV with a bed. It’s quiet, comfortable, and loaded with infotainment — especially in premium trims.
- Starting Price: ~$28,000
- EPA Fuel Economy: 22–25 mpg
- Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs (with trailer brake)
But you’ll pay for those luxuries. While the Slate Truck focuses on core needs, the Santa Cruz quickly climbs north of $40,000 with upgrades. If you’re looking for utility with comfort today, the Santa Cruz is a great fit. If you’re seeking a blank canvas to grow with, Slate offers more long-term flexibility at a fraction of the starting cost.
What About Telo’s Electric Truck?
Telo is a new player promising compact EV trucks with serious power and range. Its base model costs roughly $41,000 and offers up to 350 miles of range and towing capacity exceeding 6,600 pounds. It’s the most advanced of the bunch — and the most expensive.
- Price: ~$41,000 (before options)
- Range: 260–350 miles
- Power: Up to 500 hp (dual motor option)
Telo’s extras include solar panels, touchscreen displays, and multiple color options — things Slate leaves up to the user. But it’s a premium product. If you want Tesla-level performance in a compact EV, Telo is compelling. If your goal is affordable, utilitarian transportation, Slate wins on value.
Which Truck Offers the Best Long-Term Value?
This depends on what “value” means to you. If you’re focused on upfront cost and plan to grow your truck with modular upgrades over time, the Slate Truck is the most budget-flexible option. You can get to work with the essentials — and invest more as needed. The Slate 3D mod system makes this even more appealing, letting users print their own add-ons or purchase from community creators.
On the flip side, if you need towing power, room for five, or advanced safety features right now, trucks like the Maverick and Santa Cruz are safer bets — and available today.
Should You Wait for the Slate Truck?
That’s the big question. Production isn’t expected until 2027, and like all startups, delays are a possibility. But if Slate delivers on its promises, it could fill a gap that no one else is addressing — the affordable, modifiable, electric work truck.
The company is betting on a new kind of buyer: one who values simplicity, customization, and long-term ownership over flashy features. And with over 100,000 people already putting in reservations, it’s clear the concept is resonating.
This article was inspired by insights from Edmunds’ original comparison.
Final Thoughts
The Slate Truck isn’t trying to be a Maverick killer or a Santa Cruz alternative. It’s trying to be something different: simple, smart, and truly accessible. If you can wait — and if you love the idea of building your own driving experience — this truck might be the most exciting thing on four wheels.
To track preorder news, mod kits, and updates from early testers, visit SlateRides.com or check out our latest coverage on the Slate mod platform.
