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Bezos-backed EV startup Slate Auto’s pickup truck spotted in the wild
Slate Auto, an EV startup backed by Jeff Bezos, has had an early version of its low-cost electric pickup truck spotted in Los Angeles. The truck, designed for customization and targeted to sell at about $25,000, aims to attract investors with its simple styling and potential upselling options. The company is preparing to unveil its vehicle soon as it emerges from stealth mode.
Key points
- Slate Auto is an EV startup backed by Jeff Bezos, focusing on a low-cost electric pickup truck.
- A prototype of the truck was spotted in Los Angeles being offloaded from a container.
- The vehicle is designed for affordability, targeting a price around $25,000.
- Customization seems to be a key feature, with plans for upselling on accessories.
- Slate has trademarked phrases like 'WE BUILT IT. YOU MAKE IT' indicating a focus on personalization.
- The design resembles both the modern Ford Bronco Sport and Rivian R1T.
- Slate Auto plans to present its product to potential investors soon.
Why it matters
- The interest in low-cost electric vehicles aligns with the growing trend of affordable EVs as consumer demand increases.
- Customization in vehicles is becoming more popular, reflecting a broader trend in consumer products towards personalization by 2025.
- Slate Auto's approach directly competes with existing brands like Rivian and Tesla, which are establishing their foothold in the electric truck market.
- Bezos's involvement suggests significant backing and attention, reminiscent of Amazon's influence on tech innovations.
Slate Auto's emergence marks a significant step in the affordable EV market, reflecting current trends towards customization and low-cost electric vehicles, potentially reshaping competition in the automotive industry.