Slate truck gets software updates through your phone instead of built-in connectivity
US automaker Slate Auto's stripped-down electric pickup has no built-in cellular or infotainment, so it receives over-the-air software updates via the owner's smartphone and the truck's USB port.
The electric pickup from automaker Slate Auto, with a base price below $25,000, has no infotainment system and no built-in cellular connection. It still receives over-the-air (OTA) software updates, using the owner's smartphone as the go-between.
How updates work
When an update is available, the Slate app downloads it to the phone. The owner then plugs the phone into the USB port on the dashboard. The initial file transfer, during which the phone must stay connected, takes about a minute. The truck then finishes the installation by itself, which can take around 45 minutes.
The company says updates will be limited to bug fixes and small improvements, so major new features are not expected after purchase. The same app also shows range, helps find chargers and passes directions to Google Maps, Apple Maps or Waze.
Minimalism as a business model
The base version also lacks a radio, speakers, power windows and a paint job; the body is wrapped in vinyl. Slate Auto reaches its low price by cutting everything not related to driving and safety. It sells add-ons separately, including speakers, an iPad mount, a kit that turns the truck into a five-seat SUV and a telematics module for unlocking doors in the app. A fully loaded version exceeds $45,000.
The truck has an estimated range of 205 miles, a maximum payload of 1,550 pounds and a 2,000-pound tow rating. It is designed more for short hauls and errands than long trips.
Privacy
Slate says it will not sell app data and will collect only what it needs for diagnostics, service and update status. Whether enough buyers want such a pared-back electric pickup remains an open question.
