Slate’s $25,000 EV has no radio or touchscreen, but you can customize it your way

Most new vehicles are adding bigger screens and more technology, but the new Slate electric truck takes a different approach. Starting at $24,950, it comes with two seats, standard safety features, a backup camera, a small driver display, a phone mount instead of a touchscreen, and even hand-crank windows.

The idea is to let owners add only the features they want. More than 200 accessories and over 100 wrap colors will be available at launch, with options to upgrade the truck into an SUV or a more rugged model. While some automotive experts question whether there’s a large market for such a basic vehicle, others say there’s nothing else quite like it.

I wasn’t allowed to drive the Slate myself, only ride along, but I came away impressed. The cabin felt roomier than I expected, and the truck was smooth, quick, and fun. Pre-orders are open now with a $300 non-refundable deposit, and the first deliveries are expected later this year.

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