With only the Maxus T90 and the newer Maxus e-Terron 9 currently available and the Isuzu D-Max EV on the horizon, the UK pick-up market has been crying out for something simple, practical and genuinely affordable. And this is exactly where the Slate EV Truck makes its entrance. Backed by Amazon and built around an ultra-modular, no-nonsense platform, it’s already creating serious buzz in the US and, according to various sources is now gearing up for a UK debut in 2026.

With pricing expected to land between £16,000–£20,000, a custom-ready design philosophy and high-profile backing from investors including Jeff Bezos, the Slate EV Truck is attracting a lot of attention.

Design

Slate’s approach is refreshingly straightforward: remove the unnecessary, keep the essentials, and let the user build everything else. Instead of confusing trim levels and spec packs, you start with a solid, minimal electric platform then tailor it to your exact needs.

Key design highlights

• Unpainted, hard-wearing exterior panels, ideal for cost-effective business branding via vinyl wraps

• Crank windows and simplified cabin controls, cutting down on electronics and reducing long-term maintenance

• No built-in infotainment screen as standard, just plug in your own device or choose an aftermarket setup

• Open-bed layout ready for racks, covers, storage modules, tool mounts and more

• DIY-friendly accessories and upgrades that don’t require specialist technicians
  
  

It’s essentially the EV version of a reliable toolbox, versatile, repairable and designed for tradespeople, local service operators and small businesses who value function over flash.

Performance & Range

The Slate EV Truck puts practicality ahead of prestige, and its performance numbers reflect exactly that.

Battery options

• 52 kWh → around 150 miles of real-world range

• 84 kWh → up to 240 miles per charge

Payload & towing

• Payload: approx 650 kg

• Towing: approx 450–500 kg

No, it’s not chasing class-leading figures, unlike the Maxus eterron 9, but it’s more than capable of handling tools, materials, equipment and everyday business use without unnecessary cost or complexity.

Availability

Slate Auto is already taking reservations in the US, where demand has taken off thanks to its simplicity and genuinely low entry price. For the UK, a luanch date is yet to be confirmed, but rumoured to be in late 2026, with final pricing and specification to be confirmed closer to launch. At time of writing, there has been no confirmation a UK launch will take place.