It’s a pretty major limitation.
Slate is bringing something new to the EV truck market. The truck startup has quickly made a name for itself with its minimalist design, low price point and customization features. Playfully crowned the Blank Slate, the Michigan-based manufacturer’s flagship truck does away with pesky features like speakers and automatic windows in favor of a $24,950 base price. But even with hundreds of add-ons and vinyl wraps, the build-your-own truck company is hoping that the biggest roadblock to getting you in an EV is the market’s elevated prices.
Luckily, the company’s minimalist approach doesn’t apply to the truck’s performance. With a 135 kW motor, the EV delivers 181 horsepower, 195 ft-lb of torque and 2,000 pounds of towing power. These metrics are in line with the hybrid Ford Maverick. And while its 205-mile range leaves something to be desired, the biggest concern for trucking purists may be the Slate truck’s commitment to two-wheel drive.
Slate, which has pitched its truck more as an everyday vehicle than a heavy-duty towing machine, currently only offers rear-wheel drive. However, this may change with later models. According to an email posted to the Slate truck fan forum, “all-wheel drive is in the plans for a future version of Slate.” According to the post, although such options won’t be available at launch, Slate knows “how important it is for folks in snowier climates, on job sites, or looking for that extra traction.”
Of course, such projections should be taken with a grain of salt. To date, Slate has yet to verify whether a different drivetrain is in the works. We’ve reached out to Slate for confirmation and will update the story accordingly. In the meantime, let’s look at how Slate drivers can benefit from all-wheel drive, and why Slate has chosen not to offer it at this time.
Behind the drivetrain debate
The desire for four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options is logical. Because these drive systems send power to each wheel, they can maximize control and improve traction when driving in uncertain conditions. So if you plan on camping in the woods, need to haul large payloads over unpaved roads or expect to be driving in slick conditions, a truck with 4×4 or all-wheel drive is worth considering.
But Slate’s decision to use a rear two-wheel drivetrain is also sound. First and foremost is cost, as adding AWD or 4WD substantially raises a vehicle’s price tag. Considering Slate’s mission to deliver “the most affordable truck in America,” using rear-wheel drive is an easy way to lower costs. Moreover, AWD and 4WD drivetrains typically increase maintenance costs. The extra energy expenditure of powering all four wheels can also decrease an EV’s range, potentially exacerbating an already-acute challenge for Slate drivers. Rear-wheel drive also offers more towing capacity, adding to its case as a more efficient option for the EV.
Rear-wheel drive also better fits Slate’s audience. Notably, the startup doesn’t market its trucks as heavy-duty haulers or off-roading demons. Instead, Slate argues that its trucks are “built for everyday practicality,” with the company stating that its drivetrain strikes a balance between battery range, towing performance, traction, stability and thermal limits.
These considerations are notable given the peculiarities of EV towing. Capable of generating max torque instantly, EV trucks are great for low-speed hauling. However, Slate’s website notes that “sustained towing creates heat, and EVs need to protect motors, inverters, and battery systems from overload.” Ultimately, your Slate truck can accomplish most daily needs and is ideal for “small trailers, motorcycles, yard equipment, kayaks, camping setups, and weekend utility jobs.”
Getting a Slate
The EVs come in both truck and SUV styles. If you are looking to add a second row of seats, the SUVs come in squareback, fastback and open-air kits. Once you’ve chosen your body, you can cycle through over 200 accessories and a phantasmagoria of vinyl wraps. You can also choose from several unique starter packs and collaborations. Interestingly, buyers don’t need to select all their accessories and wraps at once. Slate’s DIY approach is meant to keep things cheap and customizable, allowing your ride to evolve along with you.
Pre-orders are currently open, and the first deliveries are set for late 2026. Those willing to put down a $300 deposit can cement their spot in the next delivery window. As it stands, Slate states that new orders will likely begin to ship from its Warsaw, Indiana, factory as early as July 2027. Notably, buyers will also be charged a $1,450 destination fee, which covers transportation and delivery costs.
You can begin your Slate journey by visiting the startup’s website. There, you can begin designing your dream truck from the ground up via the startup’s design tool. Customizing your electric truck is fun, easy and highly addictive. For more information on Slate’s novel EV, you can read my colleague Tim’s insightful review after a day behind the wheel. If you still have questions, Slate’s helpful FAQ page is likely to cover them, with answers ranging from how to install your latest accessories to how many dachshunds can fit in the cargo bed (spoiler: 30).
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