Bezos-backed EV startup teases ‘Transformer’ truck
Jeff Bezos-backed Slate Auto has been testing multiple concept versions of its electric vehicle (EV) on California streets, hinting at its strategy to sell a customizable, “Transformer”-like vehicle, according to people familiar with the company’s internal discussions.
The Michigan-based startup, founded in 2022, is set to launch its EV on April 24 at Long Beach Airport. Slate has operated relatively secretly until TechCrunch revealed Bezos’ financial involvement and its plan to price the base model, called the “Blank Slate” version, at around $25,000. The company has also filed for a trademark for the phrase “We Built It. You Make It.”
Recently, concept versions of the truck were spotted in Venice, California, and on Reddit, with different designs, including a two-door SUV and a hatchback resembling Rivian’s forthcoming R3. The vehicle seen in Venice was made to look like a two-door pickup truck with a hard cover over the bed, giving it an SUV shape, and was wrapped for a fake business called “Rockabye Rides.”
This adaptability is a key feature Slate has touted to investors, showcasing a generic version of the truck that can be quickly customized. During its Series B funding round last year, the company demonstrated this capability to prospective investors, convincing them to invest over $100 million.
Guggenheim Partners CEO Mark Walter, also the controlling owner of the LA Dodgers, invested in the round and joined Slate’s board. The company’s spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment.
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The new photos provide a clear view of the exterior and potential customization options, but the interior and vehicle specs remain unknown. Slate has briefed automotive journalists ahead of the launch event, who are under non-disclosure agreements (NDAs).