EVERYTHING
According to Insideevs, the Slate truck is positioned to disrupt the entry-level EV landscape when deliveries begin in the fourth quarter of this year. Starting at $24,950 before destination fees, it will be the first dedicated affordable electric pickup in the United States. However, for consumers looking for versatile EVs under $30,000, the refreshed Chevy Bolt and the latest Nissan Leaf remain primary benchmarks.
Range and Battery Specifications
The Slate truck utilizes a 65 kWh lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery, which is estimated to provide a range of 205 miles. This figure places it behind its main competitors due to the aerodynamic challenges inherent in pickup truck designs. In contrast, the Chevy Bolt uses a similarly sized 65 kWh LFP pack but achieves a significantly higher EPA-rated range of 262 miles.
The Nissan Leaf S+ stands out as the leader in distance among these three models. It employs a larger 75 kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) battery to deliver an impressive 303 miles of range. While the Slate will also be available in SUV and fastback configurations, it is currently unclear how those body styles will impact its total mileage compared to the truck variant.
Charging Infrastructure and Tech
All three vehicles are equipped with the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, ensuring compatibility with the extensive Tesla Supercharger network. However, their charging speeds and software features vary notably:
- The Slate truck supports a peak charge rate of 120 kW, reaching 20-80% in approximately 30 minutes.
- The Chevy Bolt reaches a 150 kW peak, claiming a 10-80% charge time of just 25 minutes.
- The Nissan Leaf also peaks at 150 kW but requires about 35 minutes for a 10-80% charge.
A significant distinction exists in user experience; while the Bolt and Leaf feature built-in Google infotainment with automated route planning, the Slate is designed as a low-tech vehicle that relies on a smartphone app for navigation.
Performance Dynamics
In terms of power, the Nissan Leaf S+ leads with 214 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to reach 0-60 mph in under 7 seconds. The Chevy Bolt follows closely with 210 horsepower, while the Slate truck produces 181 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, resulting in an 8.0-second sprint from a standstill. While the Leaf and Bolt offer more spirited driving dynamics, the Slate focuses on utility with a 2,000-pound towing capacity.
Ultimately, the choice between these vehicles depends on whether a buyer prioritizes the lowest possible entry price or the superior range and technology found in established hatchback models. The Slate represents a new frontier for work-ready EVs, but it faces stiff competition from refined alternatives.