Jeff Bezos-backed startup Slate has developed a $20,000 transformer electric car

A new electric pickup truck capable of transforming into an SUV with a closed or open top has been unveiled in the US. The startup Slate, which has received more than $100 million in investment, including from Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos, is developing it.

Here's What We Know

Slate premiered several prototypes in Los Angeles and announced that mass production will begin in 2026 at a new plant in Indianapolis.

The company describes its car as a "blank slate." In standard configuration, it is a rear-wheel-drive pickup with a five-seat cab, a five-metre cargo bed, manual windows and a minimum of electronics. Instead of a multimedia system there is a smartphone holder and a Bluetooth speaker. Any body colour, except for the standard grey, is available as an option thanks to the factory film - it promises to be applied in just 30 minutes.

The Slate is built on a modular platform, with a choice of two traction batteries. The base one, with a capacity of 52.7 kW⋅h, provides a range of 150 miles (241 kilometres). The larger, with a capacity of 84.3 kW⋅h, allows up to 240 miles (386 km) on a single charge. The sole electric motor, located at the rear, develops 201 hp (150 kW). Fast charging up to 120 kW is supported: replenishing the charge from 20 to 80 per cent takes about 30 minutes.

The base Black Slate version is designed to carry loads up to 1,400 lb (635 kg) and tow trailers up to 1,000 lb (453 kg). All versions are equipped with a NACS charging socket, stabilisation system, automatic braking function, rear-view cameras and a suite of other safety systems. The company intends to certify the model to the most stringent standards and achieve a five-star safety rating.

One of the features of the concept is the possibility of retrofitting. As accessories, modules are available that turn the pickup into a hard-roof SUV or a two-door SUV with an open top. Wheel discs, acoustics, additional panels and other functional elements will be available separately. The goal of this strategy is to keep the starting price below $20,000 with federal subsidies included. Orders are already being taken - a $50 deposit is required for reservations. All told, the plan is to produce up to 150,000 cars a year.

Source: Carscoops