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Automotive

Electric automaker Slate opens US preorders for low-cost pickup truck

Engadget reports that the startup is restricting initial sales of its $24,950 vehicle to domestic buyers.

The short version

  • Automaker Slate has opened preorders for its small electric pickup truck, which starts at $24,950.[Engadget]
  • Purchases and reservations are restricted strictly to customers living in the United States.[Engadget]
  • First vehicle deliveries are scheduled to begin in late 2026 for customers placing a $300 deposit.[Engadget]

Key facts

  • The Slate Truck is a small electric pickup starting at $24,950 with a $1,450 destination fee and an estimated 205-mile range.[Engadget]
  • Preorders require a $300 non-refundable deposit, with initial deliveries expected in late 2026.[Engadget]
  • Slate requires preorder customers to reside in the United States.[Engadget]
  • Founded in 2022, Slate emerged from stealth mode in 2025 and has raised approximately $1.4 billion in funding.[Engadget]

What remains uncertain

  • It is unknown when or if Slate will expand sales to international markets such as Canada, where non-CUSMA compliant US vehicles face a 25 percent retaliatory tariff.[Engadget]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.