Slate Auto, backed by Jeff Bezos, is moving forward with its ambitious plan to produce an affordable electric truck. The company has officially announced the location for its manufacturing plant: a repurposed printing services factory in Warsaw, Indiana. This move signals a significant step towards addressing one of the most pressing challenges in the EV market: affordability. With a target price of under $20,000 after tax credits, Slate Auto aims to disrupt the industry with its innovative, customizable EV.
The company’s commitment to affordability is not just a marketing gimmick. It’s a core part of their business model. By offering a base model at a significantly lower price point, Slate Auto hopes to attract a wider range of customers, including those who might have previously been priced out of the EV market. This strategy, combined with the unique customization options, sets them apart from traditional EV manufacturers.
The choice of Warsaw, Indiana, for the manufacturing plant is strategic. The 1.4 million square-foot facility, previously owned by R.R. Donnelly, offers ample space for production. While the factory’s original purpose was printing services, Slate Auto plans to retrofit it with the necessary equipment to produce electric vehicles. This repurposing approach is not only economically sound but also environmentally responsible, as it avoids the need to construct a new facility from the ground up.
The new plant is expected to create approximately 2,000 jobs, providing a significant boost to the local economy. Slate Auto aims to achieve an annual production capacity of 150,000 vehicles, a goal that, while ambitious, is within reach given the size of the facility and the company’s commitment to innovation. The transition from a printing factory to an EV production hub will require significant investment and expertise, but Slate Auto is confident in its ability to make this transformation a success.
| Metric | Value | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Factory Size | 1.4 Million Sq. Ft. | Ample space for EV production lines. |
| Job Creation | 2,000 Jobs | Significant economic boost for Warsaw, Indiana. |
| Annual Production Capacity | 150,000 EVs | Ambitious target to meet growing EV demand. |
Slate Auto’s EV truck, often referred to as the “Blank Slate,” offers a novel approach to EV ownership. The base model, priced under $20,000 after tax credits, is a no-frills, two-seater electric truck. It lacks basic features like a stereo, center console, cup holders, and even an infotainment screen. However, this minimalist design is intentional, as it allows owners to customize their vehicles to their exact preferences.
Buyers can add hundreds of customizable options at an additional cost, transforming the basic truck into an SUV, a fastback, or any other configuration they desire. This “LEGO-kit-like” approach to EV design has generated significant buzz, with enthusiasts showcasing their unique creations on the online configurator. The success of Slate Auto hinges on its ability to deliver on this promise of customization while maintaining affordability and quality. This approach to EV sales sets Slate Auto apart, potentially attracting a new segment of buyers who value personalization and cost-effectiveness.
