Amazon-Backed EV Startup Slate Unveils ‘Radically Simple’ $20,000 Electric Truck Set to Rival Tesla and Rivian

Affordable Electric Truck Under $20K Aims to Revolutionize the EV Market

A bold new player is entering the electric vehicle (EV) space — and it’s backed by Amazon’s legacy leadership. Slate, a stealth-mode startup incubated by industrial innovator Re:Build Manufacturing, has unveiled a light-duty electric truck with a starting price of just $20,000, radically undercutting Tesla, Ford, and Rivian in the EV truck market.

With support from Jeff Bezos’ family office and Amazon’s former retail CEO Jeff Wilke, Slate is aiming to disrupt the EV industry with a design philosophy that’s as practical as it is revolutionary.

Slate Electric Truck: What Makes It “Radically Simple”?

The core concept of Slate’s new EV truck is simplicity and affordability — two traits often lost in today’s tech-heavy vehicles. The base model will include crank windows, no infotainment screen, and a customizable interface that encourages drivers to “use the devices they already love.”

“The definition of what’s affordable is broken,” said CEO Chris Barman. “Slate exists to put the power back in the hands of customers who have been ignored by the auto industry.”

Rather than forcing drivers into unfamiliar interfaces, Slate encourages customization: add your own tablet, plug in your own device, or keep it analog. That’s a stark contrast to Tesla’s dashboard-dominated design.

Slate’s Electric Truck Price and Tax Credit Details

While the electric truck is being marketed as a $20,000 vehicle, Slate clarifies that the final price may vary based on federal EV tax credits. The real-world cost could be just under $20K after applying incentives.

Slate is targeting working-class Americans and budget-conscious EV buyers who want access to reliable electric vehicles without the luxury price tag. By entering the market with a sub-$25,000 EV truck, Slate is competing directly with affordable models from Ford and Chevy — and even some used gas-powered trucks.

Customizable Platform: Pickup Truck or Compact SUV? You Decide

Another groundbreaking element of the Slate truck is its flexible chassis platform. Buyers can customize their vehicle into:

• A two-seat compact pickup

• A five-seat small SUV

• A utility van or fleet-ready delivery vehicle

This modular EV platform is expected to appeal to small business owners, gig economy workers, and those looking for multi-purpose electric transportation.

Slate Electric Truck Specs: Range, Battery, and Features

• Base Range: 150 miles per charge

• Optional Extended Battery: Up to 240 miles

• Charging Type: Level 2 and Level 3 (DC Fast Charging expected)

• Interior: Minimalist, analog-first with BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) options

• Connectivity: Optional dash mount for personal tablets or smartphones

This approach to range and design aligns Slate with a growing segment of EV buyers who prefer function over flash, especially those using EVs for daily commuting, delivery services, or light hauling.

The EV Startup’s Amazon Connection: Who’s Behind Slate?

Slate isn’t just another electric vehicle startup—it has serious backing and vision:

• Jeff Wilke, Amazon’s former retail CEO, chairs Re:Build Manufacturing, the industrial incubator from which Slate emerged.

• A 2023 SEC filing revealed Slate raised $111 million under its former codename “Re:Car Inc.”

• Melissa Lewison, head of Jeff Bezos’ family office, was also listed as a funding round director.

Wilke, famous for his flannel shirts and hands-on logistics leadership at Amazon, is once again bringing an industrial revolution mindset to the EV world.

Slate vs. Tesla and Rivian: Can It Compete With Industry Giants?

Slate’s timing couldn’t be better. Tesla is facing backlash due to Elon Musk’s political controversies, and Rivian is battling production and pricing challenges. Meanwhile, consumers are actively looking for cheaper alternatives to high-end electric trucks.

Search trends show growing interest in:

• Affordable EV trucks 2025

• Tesla Cybertruck competitors

• Under $30K electric trucks

• Amazon-backed electric vehicles

Slate hits all of these high-volume keywords — giving the startup a golden SEO opportunity to dominate online interest in the low-cost EV space.

Projected Delivery Date: When Will the Slate Truck Be Available?

Though anticipation is high, Slate is taking a cautious rollout approach. The company has stated that vehicle deliveries will not begin until late 2026. However, early reservation announcements or pre-order incentives may launch in 2025 to capture market demand.

Those following the electric truck release calendar should keep Slate on their radar for the next wave of EV innovation.

Final Thoughts: Is Slate the Future of Budget-Friendly EVs?

In a market saturated with flashy dashboards, luxury add-ons, and premium pricing, Slate’s no-nonsense $20,000 electric truck could prove to be the Model T of the electric generation. With support from Amazon veterans and a vision for radical affordability, Slate might just redefine what it means to go electric in America.

If you’re tired of overpriced tech-heavy vehicles and want something reliable, rugged, and real, Slate could be the EV brand to watch heading into 2026.