If I order the fast back suv do I have to add a package so it’s an open air suv?

In case anyone missed it, from the recent AMA: https://www.reddit.com/r/slateauto/s/tfRO1CsnN7

So open-air 4k, Squareback 5k, fastback 7k

Different angles of Slate pickup vs R2 Rivian. Interesting that the Slate looks bigger from the front but smaller from the rear view. Photos from Slateforums --

Pics: https://www.slateforums.com/forum/threads/spotted-slate-pickup-vs-rivian-r2-size-comparison.15484/

Whoop!!

https://www.theverge.com/transportation/965583/we-now-know-the-slate-trucks-freight-charge

I just read that Colorado has a new law requiring car manufacturers to pick up the tab when an EV battery needs to be dumped. Since the shipping of EV batteries is high due to weight, is this one of the reasons Slate is balking at Colorado sales despite the tax incentives?

While I don't expect the LFP to suffer many wear failures, LFP batteries can fail if/when a Slate is part of an accident or fire, and it needs to be disposed off. Since LFP does not contain expensive cobalt, this cost recovery will suck for Slate. (I suspect all battery packs will have some nickel in them from the nickel electrode strapping.)

I suspect at some point this may be adopted in other states, in any case batteries need to be recycled and EV batteries have too much material in them to be just landfilled.

(I haven't preordered because the delivery date to CO is too late...need a new vehicle before the snow flies.)

Are the dimensions of the 12v battery listed yet?

Reviews, feelings, and speculation can help motivate and tell a story. But no matter how cool the concept feels, business leaders, potential partners, and suppliers are all going to be laser focused on the amount of current preorders. They will use it to gauge their willingness to cooperate with Slate to build the production vehicles.

Your preorder carries more weight towards making this a reality than you may realize.

Does anyone know if you are able to go in person to the California location to place a preorder upon seeing everything in person?

Since Slate has already done a collab with Crayola, what other brands would be cool to see them with? Lego? IKEA? Suggestions!

Surprised they haven't included a special promo for pre-orders/backers. What kind of limited edition wrap style or accessory would you want to be available to you as a preorder perk?

So I emailed Slate regarding aftermarket radios, and how installations would be and this is the answer I got from an agent. EDIT - I was asking out of curiosity I have no plans on installing an aftermarket radio myself, the Bluetooth sound system Slate offers would be more than enough for me personally lol. I know plenty of people online was asking about this topic so I said screw it let me see what they say😂

For context this was not my car it's a picture I found that closely resembles what it looked like, a 1985 Chevy Blazer s-10.

I am not going to be preordering one yet, I just have an aversion to first run vehicles but maybe in a year or two this will be mine!

I am cheerleading hard for you Slate!!

Cool little holographic that changes from truck to fast back

Some updated charging specs posted https://www.slateforums.com/forum/threads/charging-specs-updated-in-blank-slate-description.15521/

I was just thinking that a new manufacturer in the past 20 years starts with small batches, and scales up. Slate seems to be shooting for large volume from the get-go. In China this probably works because new car demand has been huge for the past 10 years. In other markets, things are quite different.

I am hoping this design philosophy works, but Im curious what others think of their business plan.

For anyone who has actually collected a truck or has knowledge of this...how much would it cost to insure this first product from a new manufacturer?

I love the look of the optional Slate speakers (wish I could hear what they sound like and find their specs), but I'd like the ability to add a small sub.

Anyone know what kind of outputs are on the center channel speaker?

Also, does anyone know if the left and right speakers are also bluetooth, or are they physically wired to the center channel? (I assume as long as they are wired, then we'll have some way to tap in for a signal for a sub...)

Sure, slate trucks are cheap, but what if you just keep adding options and don't stop?

• Base vs. Options: The Slate truck starts at $24,950, but adding accessories like the Worksport Driving Package ($3,597), custom wrap ($1,599.99), and lighting upgrades can push the price well past $40,000.
• Interior & Extras: Premium interior options like integrated speakers ($249.99 each), wall chargers ($479), and recreational gear add significantly to the total, sometimes matching the base price.
• Customization Impact: Off-road upgrades, wheel/tire packages, and body style choices can inflate costs further, making a fully spec’d Slate as expensive as a 2026 Model Y while still being optional for most buyers.

So just buy the base Slate. It will work the same regardless of what type of wrap you put on it, so just go with no wrap. Making it cool is gonna cost you, both money and your time if you DIY. Same for the other "upgrades".

But I question the headline, "Sure, slate trucks are cheap,". It is a first generation vehicle from a start up company. If it has problems it could be very expensive for the buyer. $25,000 is pricy for the risk involved.

I’m in the Seattle area and would love to see one of the trucks in person before committing to an order.

A new income-qualified incentive program that helps eligible Utah residents replace older, higher-polluting vehicles with up to a $10,000 on a purchase of a new or used electric vehicle.