Slate Truck Price: MSRP, Trims & Real-World Cost

The Slate truck is a small, two-seat electric pickup from Slate Auto, a startup. Its announced price drew attention because it is low for a new truck. Before you plan around that number, though, it helps to know what it covers and what sits on top of it.

This guide goes through the announced price, the other body styles the company has described, the destination charge, and what to check as the truck's availability develops. Prices here come from the company's announcement and press coverage, and the company can change them.

The figure below is the announced starting price for the base two-seat pickup, known as the Blank Slate.

The company has also described a four-seat SUV conversion and a fastback SUV version with a rear hatch, each at a higher price. These are configurations of the same vehicle, so the extra money pays for the body style rather than for a separate model.

The announced price is not the amount you would pay at delivery. A destination charge is added, and so are taxes and registration.

The base price plus destination gives the total shown in the second row above. Your state will add sales tax, title, and registration, and any options you choose cost extra. Ask for an itemized estimate when ordering opens in your area.

Not necessarily. The figures above were announced by the company and reported by the press, and they apply to the truck as described at that time. Prices on vehicles that have not yet reached customers can change before delivery, and options and packages can change what a configured truck costs. Check Slate Auto's official site for the current price and for the state of production and deliveries, since those details may differ from what was reported earlier.

• Deposit terms: Find out what a reservation costs and whether it is refundable.
• Delivery timing: Ask when deliveries start in your state and how orders are sequenced.
• Configuration: Confirm which body style and options the quoted price covers.
• Fees: Ask for the destination charge, registration costs, and any other required charges in writing.
• Financing and incentives: Rules and eligibility change, so check current conditions with the company or a tax professional.

The announced Slate price is low next to many new pickups. A fair comparison, though, looks at the equipment you get as well. A basic truck with few features costs less than a fully equipped one. Look at what is standard, what is optional, and what you would add yourself, then compare the total with the trucks you are considering.

• Insurance: Rates depend on your record, location, and the vehicle. Get quotes when you have an estimated delivery date.
• Charging: If you plan to charge at home, ask an electrician about installing equipment and what it costs.
• Maintenance and warranty: Review the warranty terms when the company publishes them.
• Registration: Fees and any electric vehicle charges differ by state.

1. Which price applies to the body style and options I want?
2. What is the destination charge?
3. What is the reservation deposit, and is it refundable?
4. When will my order be built and delivered?
5. What does the warranty cover?