Automotive
Slate Auto’s $20,000 Electric Truck: Redefining Affordable EVs for Everyday Americans
Slate Auto is shaking up the EV market with a $25,000 no-frills electric truck, backed by Jeff Bezos and built for everyday Americans.
Last Updated on June 7, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Image Credit: Slate Auto
A Michigan startup backed by Jeff Bezos is challenging the luxury EV market with a no-frills approach that’s capturing nationwide attention
When most people think of electric vehicles, images of Tesla’s sleek Model S or Ford’s high-tech Lightning come to mind – along with their premium price tags. But Slate Auto, a Troy, Michigan-based startup, is taking a radically different approach that’s got 100,000 Americans reaching for their wallets.
The Anti-Luxury EV
Slate’s electric pickup truck starts at just $25,000 to $27,500, making it one of the most affordable EVs ever announced. But here’s the catch – and the genius – behind their strategy: they’re stripping away everything that typically drives up EV costs.
No paint. No stereo system. No touchscreens. Not even power windows.
“We’re building the truck that America actually needs, not the one Silicon Valley thinks we want,” the company’s approach suggests, though they let their product speak for itself.
Backed by Billions, Built for the Masses
Despite its bare-bones approach, Slate Auto isn’t a garage startup. The company has secured approximately $700 million in funding from heavyweights investors including Jeff Bezos, Mark Walter, and Thomas Tull. This financial backing gives them the resources to challenge established automakers while maintaining their commitment to affordability.
The company plans to manufacture their trucks at a former Donnelly factory in Warsaw, Indiana, with production expected to begin in late 2026.
Market Response: 100,000 and Counting
Within just two weeks of opening reservations, Slate collected 100,000 orders at $50 each – generating $5 million in immediate revenue and demonstrating significant pent-up demand for affordable electric vehicles.
This response suggests that while the automotive industry has been focused on premium EVs loaded with features, there’s a massive market of consumers who simply want reliable, affordable electric transportation.
The Customization Philosophy
Slate’s minimalist approach isn’t just about cost-cutting – it’s about empowerment. By delivering a basic platform, they’re enabling customers to customize their trucks according to their specific needs and budgets. Want paint? Add it yourself or have it done locally. Need a sound system? Install exactly what you want.
This philosophy extends the vehicle’s lifecycle, as second and third owners can continue customizing and upgrading, potentially increasing long-term customer satisfaction and resale value.
What This Means for the EV Market
Slate Auto’s approach represents a fundamental shift in EV strategy. While competitors race to add more features, screens, and luxury appointments, Slate is proving that sometimes less really is more.
For communities like Phoenix, where transportation costs significantly impact family budgets, a $25,000 electric truck could be transformative. Small businesses, contractors, and everyday families who’ve been priced out of the EV market suddenly have an entry point.
Image Credit: Slate Auto
Slate Auto: Looking Ahead
As Slate moves toward their 2026 production timeline, they face the typical challenges of any automotive startup: scaling manufacturing, maintaining quality, and delivering on promises. However, their reservation numbers suggest they’ve identified a genuine market need that established automakers have overlooked.
The success or failure of Slate’s minimalist approach could reshape how the entire industry thinks about electric vehicles. Are consumers really demanding luxury features, or do they just want affordable, reliable electric transportation?
We’ll be following Slate Auto’s progress closely as they work toward production, bringing you updates on this potentially game-changing approach to electric vehicles.—STM Daily News will continue covering Slate Auto’s development and the broader evolution of affordable electric vehicles. Have thoughts on Slate’s approach? We’d love to hear from our readers about what features matter most in an electric vehicle.
Source: Slate Auto
STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.
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Automotive
2025 KIA TELLURIDE RANKS NUMBER ONE IN ITS SEGMENT IN J.D. POWER 2025 U.S. INITIAL QUALITY STUDY (IQS)
2025 Telluride
- 2025 Telluride named the Upper Midsize SUV segment winner in the J.D. Power 2025 IQS
- Award highlights Telluride’s strong performance in quality, and customer satisfaction
@stmblog Excited to introduce the KiaEV9! This all-electric SUV combines style, space, and sustainability. Ready for your next adventure! ⚡🌍 #ElectricVehicle
♬ original sound – STMDailyNews
CVT Transmissions Explained: Model Years to Avoid, Reliability Issues, and Maintenance TipsLink: https://stmdailynews.com/?p=39958
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Automotive
CVT Transmissions Explained: Model Years to Avoid, Reliability Issues, and Maintenance Tips
Learn what a CVT transmission is, which model years to avoid, brands with reliability issues, and expert tips to extend CVT lifespan.
View from the driver’s seat of the gear shift lever in a car with an automatic transmission and climate control panel. Black-gray car interior
CVT Transmissions Explained: Model Years to Avoid, Reliability Issues, and Maintenance Tips
Continuously Variable Transmissions — better known as CVTs — are now common in compact cars, hybrids, and fuel-efficient vehicles. They promise smoother driving and better gas mileage, but their reputation has been uneven, depending heavily on brand, design, and model year.
Here’s what CVTs are, which vehicles have had the most trouble, and how owners can protect themselves from costly repairs.
What Is a CVT?
A CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) doesn’t use traditional fixed gears like a 6-speed or 8-speed automatic. Instead, it relies on two variable-diameter pulleys connected by a steel belt or chain. As the pulleys change size, the transmission seamlessly adjusts the gear ratio.
- Smooth acceleration
- No noticeable gear shifts
- Improved fuel efficiency
This design is why CVTs are especially common in hybrids, where efficiency and smooth power delivery matter more than outright performance.
Illustration credit: Samarins.com
Why CVTs Are Popular in Hybrids
Most hybrid systems use a variation called an eCVT, which is mechanically different — and generally more reliable — than belt-driven CVTs found in many gas-only cars.
Manufacturers like Toyota and Honda favor eCVTs because they:
- Reduce mechanical complexity
- Eliminate traditional belts under high stress
- Integrate seamlessly with electric motors
- Deliver long-term durability with minimal maintenance
This is why hybrid CVTs tend to have far fewer failure complaints than early gasoline-only CVTs.
CVT Model Years to Avoid (Buyer Beware)
Not all CVTs are created equal. Some manufacturers — most notably Nissan — experienced widespread issues during certain production years.
Nissan CVT Model Years With Higher Failure Rates
- Nissan Altima: 2007–2012, 2013–2018
- Nissan Sentra: 2012–2017
- Nissan Rogue: 2014–2018
- Nissan Pathfinder: 2013–2014
Common issues reported included:
- Shuddering and hesitation
- Overheating
- Whining noises
- Premature belt or pulley failure
- Complete transmission replacement well before 100,000 miles
These problems were serious enough to result in extended warranties and class-action settlements in some cases. Newer Nissan CVTs (2019 and newer) show improvement, but long-term reliability data is still developing.
How Other Brands Compare
- Toyota & Honda: Generally strong CVT reliability, especially in hybrids
- Subaru: Mixed results; early Lineartronic CVTs had complaints, later versions improved
- Mitsubishi: Some issues in budget models, fewer reports overall than Nissan
In short, design, torque limits, and cooling systems matter more than the CVT label alone.
How to Extend the Life of a CVT
Despite the myth of “lifetime fluid,” most transmission specialists agree that maintenance is critical.
- Change CVT fluid every 30,000–50,000 miles
- Use only manufacturer-specified CVT fluid
- Avoid aggressive acceleration and heavy towing
- Watch for early warning signs like whining, slipping, or shuddering
- Keep the vehicle’s cooling system in good condition
- Verify service records before buying a used CVT vehicle
Neglecting fluid service is one of the fastest ways to shorten a CVT’s lifespan.
CVT vs Dual-Clutch Transmission
Feature CVT Dual-Clutch (DCT) Gear changes Continuous Fixed gears Driving feel Smooth, no shifts Fast, sporty shifts Fuel economy Often better Good, performance-focused Reliability Varies by brand/year Can be complex or jerky
Final Takeaway
CVTs aren’t inherently bad — but early designs and poor maintenance gave some brands a lasting reputation problem. Buyers should focus on:
- Specific model years
- Service history
- Driving habits
- Whether the CVT is a traditional belt-driven unit or a hybrid eCVT
When properly designed and maintained, a CVT can deliver excellent efficiency and long service life — especially in modern hybrids.
According to Consumer Reports reliability data , CVT performance varies significantly by manufacturer and model year.
Drivers can also research real-world issues through the NHTSA vehicle complaint database , which tracks owner-reported transmission problems.
For more automotive explainers, visit our The Knowledge section on STM Daily News.
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Automotive
Set Yourself Up for Safe Winter Driving
Set yourself up for safe winter driving with these essential tips: switch to winter tires, check air pressure, protect off-season wheels, and maintain tread depth. Learn how to prepare your car for snow and ice so you can drive with confidence all season.
Last Updated on December 21, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Set Yourself Up for Safe Winter Driving
(Family Features) Waiting for the first snow or ice storm to hit puts you and your tires behind the curve when it comes time to get behind the wheel. Preparing your vehicle and brushing up on smart winter driving tips helps ensure you arrive at your destination safely, no matter the weather. Consider Winter Tires When temperatures drop below 45 F, winter tires maintain flexibility and road grip, contrary to all-season tires that don’t perform as well in these conditions. Winter tires are designed for better traction and stopping power in ice, slush and snow. Change Out Seasonal Wheels and Rims Swapping summer or all-season tires for winter ones will ensure your vehicle has the best traction possible, but that’s just part of the story. Slippery, wet and icy roads mean vehicles tend to skid and lose control, striking curbs and other objects that scratch, dent and scuff. Snow and winter wheels are a smart way to protect summer rims from snow, ice and road-clearing chemicals like salt. Protect Offseason Tires It’s important to protect your offseason tires from below freezing temperatures, sunlight, moisture and other harsh weather conditions. Consider Discount Tire’s Tire Hotel service, available at select locations, where stores help preserve the condition of tires, handling tire rotations, inspections and maintenance when it’s time to change the winter tires back. Maintain Target Air Pressure The impact changing temperatures have on your tire pressure can create numerous issues, including poor handling, worse gas mileage, excessive wear and overloading. Prevent problems by checking your air pressure at least once a month when your tires are cool and before any long trip. For every 10 F in ambient temperature change, tire air pressure changes 1 PSI (pound per square inch). That means you need to check your tires more frequently as temperatures fluctuate and settle into lower winter levels. Check Tread Depth Regularly Your vehicle’s tread depth plays a vital role in traction, which can affect your safety while driving in winter conditions. To ensure you have ample tread, stick a penny upside-down in a tread groove. It’s time to replace if Lincoln’s head is visible. You can also visit your local Discount Tire store for a free tire safety check. Practice Good Tire Maintenance Taking care of your tires ensures you get the longest life and best wear. Most experts recommend rotating your tires every 6,000 miles. Knowing the age of your tires, which can be found by looking at the DOT number stamped on their sidewalls, is important since tire rubber becomes harder and more brittle as it ages, increasing the risk of failure. Choose Tires Wisely Selecting the tires that are best suited for where you drive, how you drive and what you drive helps protect you and your passengers, ensuring your vehicle is prepared for winter weather. When shopping, consider using an online tire guide like Treadwell, which provides personalized recommendations on the best tires for your driving needs. Find the tool online at DiscountTire.com/Treadwell. Photo courtesy of ShutterstockThe Legacy of the Datsun 510: How a Game-Changing Car Helped Nissan Conquer the US MarketLink: https://stmdailynews.com/the-legacy-of-the-datsun-510-how-a-game-changing-car-helped-nissan-conquer-the-us-market/
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