Slate Auto Cargo Kits Planned for Blank Slate Electric Pickup

Slate Auto Cargo Kits are planned for the Blank Slate electric pickup, giving both individual buyers and fleet operators additional options for commercial use. The company confirmed during a recent event that at least two cargo configurations are expected, with prices starting at about USD 3,000. Information about the kits was shared during a ride-along event in Portland, Oregon, where Christian Kreipke from Slate Auto's Fleet Business Development team discussed the planned equipment. The offering indicates that Slate is preparing the truck platform for applications beyond its standard configuration.

Two Cargo Kit Configurations Planned

The standard cargo kit will be based on the SUV square-back version of the Blank Slate, while a high-roof configuration will add a roof cap at the front that replaces the top portion of the cabin. Both versions are expected to be available in black and white, giving customers a choice of exterior finishes. Buyers will also be able to specify optional rear glass and bulkhead delete configurations. These options allow the cargo area to be adapted for different operating requirements while retaining the underlying dimensions of the electric pickup platform.

Flexible Panels and Commercial Equipment Support

The side panels of the cargo kits will provide additional configuration flexibility. They can be specified as blank panels, glass panels, or glass panels equipped with lift struts and locks. Beyond the two planned configurations, Kreipke indicated that the Slate truck platform could support refrigeration units and other slide-out equipment. This capability could make the platform relevant to specialized commercial applications where operators need dedicated equipment rather than a standard pickup bed. The approach also gives third-party manufacturers an opportunity to develop equipment around a consistent vehicle architecture.

Stable Dimensions Could Support Fleet Applications

Slate Auto aims to maintain the same design dimensions through future iterations of its truck, according to the information shared at the event. Maintaining dimensional consistency could give third-party equipment manufacturers greater confidence that cargo systems and specialized equipment developed for the current model will remain usable on newer versions. For fleet operators, this could reduce uncertainty around equipment compatibility and potentially make commercial upfitting more practical over time. The strategy suggests that Slate is considering the longer-term needs of businesses as it develops the Blank Slate platform.

Slate Auto Moves Toward the Commercial Market

The planned cargo equipment suggests that addressing commercial customers was a logical next step for Slate as it develops the Blank Slate electric pickup. The company is backed by Jeff Bezos, who also backs Rivian. Rivian is currently building its electric delivery vans for Amazon and other customers, providing a broader connection between Bezos-backed automotive companies and commercial electric vehicles. Slate's cargo kit strategy could therefore expand the potential use cases for its pickup beyond personal transportation, particularly if fleet operators and specialized third-party equipment manufacturers adopt the platform.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cargo kits will Slate Auto offer for the Blank Slate?
Slate Auto plans to offer at least two cargo kit configurations for the Blank Slate electric pickup, with pricing starting at about USD 3,000. One version will use the SUV square-back design, while a high-roof version will add a roof cap over the front portion of the cargo configuration. Both kits are expected in black and white and can include optional rear glass and bulkhead delete features. Side panels can also be configured with blank or glass surfaces, including glass options with lift struts and locks.