# The Slate Truck is cheap, but its battery range can't compete

> Slate Auto bets that affordability matters more than range for EV truck buyers.
- Title: The Slate Truck is cheap, but its battery range can't compete
- Summary: Slate Auto bets that affordability matters more than range for EV truck buyers. The Slate Truck costs $24,950 but only goes 205 miles per charge, betting…
- Keywords: slate auto, blank slate, ev truck, affordable electric vehicle, battery range, michigan startup, warsaw indiana, electric vehicle pricing, ev charging, technology, Slate, Truck
- Source: Engadget — https://engadget.com/2258757/slate-truck-lower-battery-range-than-average
- Author: Alec Hively
- Published: 2026-09-19T20:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: slate auto, blank slate, ev truck, affordable electric vehicle, battery range, michigan startup, warsaw indiana, electric vehicle pricing, ev charging, technology
## Slate bets big on affordability
The Michigan startup's Blank Slate truck starts at $24,950, undercutting the $50,000 average new vehicle price. It comes in truck and SUV versions with customizable vinyl wraps and over 200 optional accessories.
## Performance is respectable
The Blank Slate has a 135 kilowatt rear motor with 181 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. It matches the 2026 Ford Maverick's performance, reaching 60 miles per hour in 8 seconds and towing 2,000 pounds.
## Range is the real tradeoff
The 63 kilowatt-hour battery delivers 205 miles of range, well below competitors' 280 to 450 miles. Slate argues this is intentional, designed for daily commutes averaging 37 miles, not long road trips.

> focused on practical, everyday driving that balances range with affordability, efficiency, and capability.
## Charging works for daily use
DC fast chargers reach 80 percent in 30 minutes. Level 2 home chargers take 5 hours for a full charge. A standard wall outlet adds 20 to 50 miles overnight.
## Who should buy the Slate
The Blank Slate suits daily commuters seeking an affordable, minimalist EV truck. It won't satisfy buyers wanting long-range road trip capability without frequent charging stops.
## Preorders start this year
Slate will ship from its Warsaw, Indiana factory later in 2026. A $300 preorder reserves your spot, and buyers can design their truck using Slate's online tool.
## Key takeaway

The Slate Truck costs $24,950 but only goes 205 miles per charge, betting that most daily drivers won't need more.