Underpromise, overdeliver? Hands-on with the $24,950 Slate auto.

Believers of the hype? Will the Slate live up to the Internet’s desire for a low-cost, bare-bones pickup? Slate announced in April 2026 that 160,000 individuals had placed a $50 refundable deposit for a Slate. This week, that number was updated to 180,000. Now those individuals will have to make a decision. Will they add an additional $250 to that deposit, making it non-refundable? Those who have not already placed a deposit will have to pony up $300 for a non-refundable deposit. You can see the replaceable dash panels here. Credit: Roberto Baldwin You can see the replaceable dash panels here. Credit: Roberto Baldwin Those who have already put down a $50 deposit have until July 24, 2026, to lock in their delivery window. After that, the delivery time will be later. There are two potential scenarios here. In the first, the Slate truck is at least a modest hit. Those who made the initial deposit will have their vehicles delivered first, starting in the fourth quarter of 2026. Some will likely have to wait months or even a year to take delivery of their pickup (or SUV). Some might peel off and opt for the small electric Ford pickup . But overall, the company will be in good shape as the vehicles enter the market, and it will have enough orders to justify its existence. …