Slate Opens First Showroom for Its $26,400 Electric Pickup

Electric vehicle startup Slate has opened its first showroom in Chicago ahead of sales planned for later this year, showcasing its $26,400 electric pickup — destination fees included — with a projected EPA range of 205 miles.

The truck takes a radically back-to-basics approach: a simple, affordable work vehicle with optional kits that can convert it into a five-seat SUV. Servicing will run through RepairPal's independent network, including more than 100 workshops capable of working on high-voltage EV systems.

At $26,400, it would be one of the cheapest new EVs available in the US — undercutting even the most affordable mainstream electrics by thousands. The trade-off is modest range and a spartan feature set, but for buyers who want cheap electric transportation, little else comes close on price.

Startup vehicles carry real risk — delivery timelines slip and companies fail. But if Slate delivers, it could reset expectations for what an affordable EV costs. We'll be watching closely.