Slate Auto will begin accepting non-refundable preorders for its low-cost electric vehicle on June 24, marking the next step toward customer deliveries planned for later this year.
The electric vehicle startup, backed by investors including Jeff Bezos and Los Angeles Dodgers owner Mark Walter, informed prospective customers via email that preorder pricing and vehicle details will be announced on June 24. Customers who have already placed a refundable $50 reservation will receive priority access and an earlier delivery window before preorders open to the broader public.
Preorders Open June 24
According to information published on the company’s preorder page, prospective buyers will be able to place a non-refundable $300 preorder beginning June 24.
Slate is currently encouraging customers to secure a $50 refundable reservation ahead of the preorder launch. The company says reservation holders will receive preferential access when delivery slots are assigned.
The startup first indicated that pricing details would be revealed in June, and the newly published preorder information confirms the announcement date.
Affordable EV Strategy
Slate emerged from stealth mode in April 2025 after reports revealed its plans to develop a simple, low-cost electric vehicle aimed at budget-conscious consumers.
The company originally promoted a base version of its EV at a price below $20,000 after applying the former $7,500 federal electric vehicle tax credit. However, following the elimination of the federal incentive, Slate has revised its public pricing expectations and now says the vehicle will start in the mid-$20,000 range.
The vehicle’s design emphasizes simplicity and customization. The base configuration is a two-seat electric pickup truck that can be converted into a five-seat SUV through optional upgrades.
Strong Consumer Interest
The concept of an affordable electric vehicle with minimal complexity has generated substantial interest among consumers.
Since unveiling the vehicle, Slate has accumulated more than 160,000 refundable reservations, according to the company. Features such as hand-crank windows, unpainted exterior panels, and a highly customizable design have differentiated the vehicle from many modern electric vehicles that prioritize premium features.
However, industry observers note that converting reservations into completed vehicle purchases remains one of the biggest challenges facing emerging EV manufacturers.
Leadership and Funding
To support its transition from development to production, Slate appointed former Amazon Marketplace executive Peter Faricy as Chief Executive Officer in March. The company has recruited several former Amazon executives into key leadership roles as it prepares for commercial operations.
The startup has also secured significant financial backing. In April, Slate announced the completion of a $650 million Series C funding round, bringing total funding raised to approximately $1.4 billion.
Much of the capital is believed to have come from investment firm TWG Global, led by Mark Walter. While Jeff Bezos participated in Slate’s early funding rounds, the extent of his involvement in more recent investments has not been publicly disclosed.
Source: TechCrunch
