In a significant shift of allegiance, a leading UK electric vehicle editor has announced he is cancelling his long-standing Tesla Cybertruck reservation, swayed instead by a new, radically simple American electric pick-up called the Slate.
From Cybertruck Curiosity to Slate Conversion
Steve Fowler, EV editor for Auto Express, placed his $50 deposit for a Cybertruck back in 2019 following its infamous Los Angeles launch where the "unbreakable" windows shattered. Years later, with no sign of the angular Tesla coming to British shores, his enthusiasm waned. "Time moves on quickly and the appeal of the Cybertruck has dimmed," Fowler stated.
The turning point came in May 2025 at the Car Design Event in Munich, where he met Slate's head of design, Tisha Johnson. Seeing a scale model ignited his interest, which was fully cemented after a recent hands-on experience with a full-size prototype in Century City, California.
The Slate Philosophy: Simplicity, Affordability, and Personalisation
Fowler describes the Slate as "everything the Cybertruck isn't." It is compact, usable, and designed with a core philosophy of stripping away the unnecessary. Founded by CEO Chris Barman, Slate Auto aims to democratise EV ownership. "The definition of what’s affordable is broken," Barman says, positioning the company as a challenger to industry norms.
The vehicle, a two-seat pick-up, is sold in one factory configuration: the 'Blank Slate'. To slash costs, it forgoes paint; its polycarbonate body panels come in a neutral grey, intended as a canvas for owners. Personalisation is key, with over 100 accessories available to convert the base model into a workhorse, adventure vehicle, or even a five-seat SUV using a flat-pack conversion kit.
The interior is a study in minimalism. It features wind-up windows, physical knobs for air conditioning, and a universal mount for the owner's phone or tablet instead of a built-in infotainment system. "You bring your own tech," Fowler notes, praising the escape from complicated menu mazes.
Specifications, Price, and the Road Ahead
Underneath its simple exterior, the Slate packs sensible EV specifications. The standard model uses a 52.7kWh battery for approximately 150 miles of range, with an optional 84.3kWh pack extending this to 240 miles. A single rear-mounted motor delivers 201bhp, achieving 0-60mph in around eight seconds. It supports fast charging and uses the NACS port for future Tesla Supercharger access.
The most compelling figure is the price. The Blank Slate starts at an estimated $25,000 (roughly £18,718), before US incentives or taxes. At just 4.4 metres long, it offers a 635kg payload and 454kg towing capacity.
Despite his enthusiasm, Fowler concedes a hurdle for UK buyers: Slate has no current plans for right-hand drive or UK sales. International shipments are expected from 2027. For now, he plans to take delivery in the US if his order proceeds.
Fowler's decision marks a symbolic moment. He concludes that while the Cybertruck is "fast and flashy," the Slate represents a humble, ingenious, and accessible future for electric vehicles—one that prioritises clever design and affordability over excess. His Cybertruck order is officially cancelled.
