Jeff Bezos, founder and executive chairman of Amazon, continues to expand his investment interests beyond e-commerce and space exploration. While Blue Origin keeps him in the spotlight in the aerospace industry, recent developments indicate that Bezos is now eyeing the electric vehicle (EV) market. He is reportedly funding a promising EV startup named Slate Auto.
Slate Auto is currently working on an affordable all-electric pickup truck, which made its first public appearance this week. Priced at an ambitious $25,000, the vehicle aims to offer an attractive alternative for consumers seeking budget-friendly electric transportation—especially in a market where electric pickups typically start around $50,000.
Founded in 2022 and based in Michigan, Slate Auto plans to begin mass production of its compact two-door pickup in 2026. To support this goal, the company has been expanding rapidly, hiring top talent from legacy automakers like GM, Ford, and Stellantis. It's reported that the company now employs nearly 500 people.
Drawing inspiration from iconic, mass-market vehicles such as the Ford Model T and VW Beetle, Slate Auto envisions its pickup becoming a disruptive force in the electric vehicle space. If it delivers on the promised price point and performance, the vehicle could significantly shift the dynamics of the U.S. EV market.
Although details about the truck remain under wraps, a leaked image this week revealed a prototype likely designed for internal investor presentations. According to sources close to the company, the vehicle blends design elements reminiscent of a classic Range Rover and Jeep Renegade.
The lack of a traditional front grille highlights its all-electric nature, while a charging port located near the rear fender confirms the vehicle’s EV credentials. These visual cues suggest a blend of practicality and modern EV design.
With Jeff Bezos’ financial backing and Slate Auto’s ambitious roadmap, the project has the potential to reshape how consumers perceive electric utility vehicles. If everything goes according to plan, this affordable electric pickup might soon be seen not just on investor slides—but on roads across America.