Jobaaj Stories
In a bold departure from the tech-saturated world of electric vehicles, Slate Auto, a new EV startup backed by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, has officially launched its first analog electric pickup truck — and it’s being described as decidedly anti-Tesla.
The launch, which took place earlier this week, has sent ripples through the auto industry, not just for its surprising retro-styled design but for its philosophy: simplicity, durability, and driver engagement. At a time when EVs are becoming increasingly digital and self-driving-focused, Slate Auto is doubling down on the idea that drivers still want to drive.
🚙 What Makes the Slate Auto EV Pickup So Unique?
Dubbed the “Slate Legacy Edition”, the new truck embraces an old-school, analog feel. That means:
Physical buttons instead of touchscreen-heavy interfaces
Minimal driver-assist features, no self-driving gimmicks
Classic gauges rather than full digital dashboards
Tactile, mechanical design that leans into rugged durability
Long-range battery pack and robust off-road capability
Unlike Tesla's futuristic Cybertruck or Rivian’s tech-forward R1T, Slate Auto’s offering looks like something out of a 90s garage — boxy, utilitarian, and refreshingly raw.
💼 Jeff Bezos’ Backing Adds Major Credibility
The company’s funding has largely come from a group of high-profile investors, with Jeff Bezos among the most prominent. While Amazon has traditionally been tied to Rivian (through delivery fleet deals), Bezos’ stake in Slate Auto signals a new direction and a bet on EV diversity.
Slate Auto’s CEO, former Ford engineer Mark Collins, emphasized the goal of putting “drivers first, not software updates” during the launch event.
“We’re not here to compete with Tesla. We’re here to offer an alternative — for those who love the open road, tools that work, and trucks that last,” he said.
🧠Anti-Tesla by Design: A Statement on EV Over-Engineering
The launch of Slate Auto’s analog EV pickup comes at a time when consumer fatigue is growing over overly complex smart cars. Tesla’s frequent over-the-air updates, reliance on full-screen controls, and controversial driver-assistance features have drawn both praise and criticism.
Slate’s strategy? Do the opposite. They aim to deliver an electric vehicle that feels like a traditional truck but with zero emissions and modern reliability.
This makes it appealing to:
- Rural and utility-focused drivers
- Fleet owners seeking long-term durability
- EV buyers skeptical of full automation
- Consumers who want less screen time, even in their cars
âš¡ Performance Specs of the Slate Legacy Edition
While Slate Auto is leaning hard into nostalgia, performance hasn’t taken a backseat:
- Range: ~350 miles on a single charge
- Battery: 120 kWh lithium-ion pack
- 0-60 mph: Under 5 seconds
- Towing capacity: Up to 9,000 lbs
- Charging: Fast-charging support with universal CCS connector
- Interior: Leather-free, weatherproof materials, and physical HVAC controls
- The Legacy Edition is expected to retail starting around $45,000, making it competitively priced in the EV pickup space.
🔮 What This Means for the EV Market
Slate Auto’s entry into the EV market is more than just a niche experiment — it’s a statement of intent. The growing diversity of EV options, from luxury sedans to rugged analog trucks, shows that electrification isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution.
While Tesla continues to dominate headlines with innovation, companies like Slate Auto are proving there’s room for rebellion — and nostalgia — in the electric age.
✅ Conclusion: Slate Auto Sparks a Retro Revolution in EV World
In an EV industry dominated by futuristic designs and AI-driven dashboards, Slate Auto’s analog electric pickup truck is a breath of fresh air. Backed by Jeff Bezos and built for people who value mechanical connection over digital distraction, the Slate Legacy Edition might just carve out a passionate fanbase of its own.
Whether it becomes a mainstream hit or a cult classic, one thing is clear: not everyone wants a rolling iPad — some just want a great truck.
