Testing the Slate Truck

The affordable electric pickup from Slate Auto is continuing to gain attention as the startup moves closer to production. One of the most visible recent developments came when legendary car collector and TV host Jay Leno featured the truck on his popular YouTube series Jay Leno’s Garage.

The episode offered one of the most detailed looks yet at the upcoming Slate Truck, including a real-world test drive, design insights, and a closer look at the company’s philosophy behind building what could become one of America’s most affordable electric vehicles.

Watch the Jay Leno Test Drive

What Jay Leno Revealed About the Slate Truck

During the episode, Leno drove a pre-production prototype of the truck while engineers from Slate Auto explained the design approach.

Unlike many modern EVs packed with luxury features, the Slate Truck is intentionally simple.

Key highlights from the test drive include:

A Focus on Simplicity and Repairability

One of the most notable ideas behind the truck is that it is designed to be easy to repair and modify. Instead of relying on proprietary parts or complex electronics, the vehicle uses a more straightforward architecture that could allow owners or independent mechanics to work on it.

This approach contrasts with many EVs that require dealership service or specialized tools.

Advertisement

Modular Body Panels and Customization

The Slate Truck is built around a modular platform with removable exterior panels and optional accessory kits.

According to the company, owners will be able to customize the vehicle with:

Different body panel styles Accessory racks and cargo options A potential conversion kit that can transform the pickup into a small SUV

The idea is to allow the vehicle to evolve with the owner’s needs over time.

Minimalist Interior

Inside the prototype shown to Leno, the truck features a very basic interior layout.

Instead of a large infotainment system, the vehicle relies heavily on smartphone integration and simpler controls to keep costs down. This minimalist philosophy is part of the company’s effort to build a lower-cost EV.

Pricing and the “Affordable EV” Promise

When the truck was first revealed in 2025, Slate Auto suggested the vehicle could cost under $20,000 after incentives.

Advertisement

However, with changes to federal EV incentives and updated pricing expectations, analysts now estimate the truck will likely start around the mid-$20,000 range.

Even at that price, the vehicle could still become one of the most affordable electric trucks available in the United States.

Production Plans in Indiana

The company plans to manufacture the truck in Warsaw, Indiana, where a large former industrial facility is being converted into an EV factory.

Production targets include:

Production start: Late 2026 Early deliveries: Possibly 2027 Potential capacity: Up to about 150,000 vehicles per year once fully ramped

Strong early interest has also been reported, with more than 100,000 reservations placed for the truck shortly after its reveal.

A Different Kind of Electric Truck

The Slate Truck is entering a market where most electric pickups—such as the Ford F-150 Lightning and Rivian R1T—sit at much higher price points.

Rather than competing on luxury or performance, the Slate Truck is aiming to fill a different niche: a practical, customizable, and relatively affordable electric work vehicle.

If the company can deliver on its promises, it could open the door to a new category of budget-friendly EVs.

Advertisement

For now, the test drive on Jay Leno’s Garage provides one of the clearest glimpses yet at how the truck might perform in the real world.

Related Coverage on STM Daily News

• Automotive News and Innovation – STM Daily News
• Boom Supersonic and the Overture: The Return of Commercial Supersonic Travel
• The Evolution of Public Transportation in Los Angeles
• Technology News and Emerging Innovations

Further Reading and Information

• Slate Auto Official Website
• Watch the Slate Truck Test Drive on Jay Leno’s Garage
• Car and Driver: First Look at the Slate Truck
• TechCrunch: Slate Auto Leadership Changes Ahead of Launch
• InsideEVs: Latest Electric Vehicle News

Welcome to the Consumer Corner section of STM Daily News, your ultimate destination for savvy shopping and informed decision-making! Dive into a treasure trove of insights and reviews covering everything from the hottest toys that spark joy in your little ones to the latest electronic gadgets that simplify your life. Explore our comprehensive guides on stylish home furnishings, discover smart tips for buying a home or enhancing your living space with creative improvement ideas, and get the lowdown on the best cars through our detailed auto reviews. Whether you’re making a major purchase or simply seeking inspiration, the Consumer Corner is here to empower you every step of the way—unlock the keys to becoming a smarter consumer today!

https://stmdailynews.com/category/consumer-corner

Last Updated on March 4, 2026 by Daily News Staff

(Family Features) Misinformation about auto insurance continues to circulate, leading many drivers to make decisions based on outdated or inaccurate assumptions.

“Even savvy drivers can be misled by insurance myths,” said Justin Yoshizawa, director of product management at Mercury Insurance. “Understanding what coverage actually does – and doesn’t – do can help people avoid unpleasant surprises after an accident.”

To help consumers stay informed, Mercury Insurance is sharing this lineup of auto insurance misconceptions that can affect coverage, cost and peace of mind – and the facts that stand in their place.

Myth No. 1: You Can Negotiate Your Auto Insurance Premium

Fact: Insurance rates aren’t like haggling for a car price. They’re calculated using approved rating formulas and risk models regulated by state insurance departments, so you can’t negotiate a lower rate directly with your carrier. What you can do is shop for discounts, adjust coverage levels or improve your risk profile to influence your premium.

Myth No. 2: You Don’t Need Medical Payments Coverage ifYou Have Health Insurance

Fact: Even if you carry health insurance, your auto policy’s medical payments or personal injury protection can still be valuable. These coverages may pay medical costs regardless of fault and can help cover expenses not covered by health insurance, including deductibles, co-pays, ambulance bills, lost wages and more, depending on state regulations.

Myth No. 3: Full Coverage Means You’re Covered for Everything

Fact: “Full coverage” is a common shorthand used to describe a policy that includes liability, comprehensive and collision coverage. Even with all three, coverage is still subject to limits, deductibles and exclusions, which means certain situations and expenses may not be covered unless additional protections are added.

Myth No. 4: All Insurance Companies are Basically the Same

Fact: Each insurer has different underwriting guidelines, risk models, discount structures, service levels and claims handling practices. Shopping only on price without comparing coverages and service reputation can lead to surprises when you need to file a claim.

Myth No. 5: A Not-At-Fault Accident Won’t Affect Your Rates

Fact: Even if you weren’t at fault, filing a claim can still influence your insurance score and possibly affect future pricing depending on your state and your carrier’s specific rating rules. Discuss the scenario with your agent before deciding whether or not to file.

Myth No. 6: New Cars are Always More Expensive to Insure

Fact: A new car often costs more to insure than an older one, but this isn’t automatic. A new vehicle with high-end safety features or strong crash-worthiness and theft-deterrent systems may be less expensive to insure than a different used model with poor safety ratings or costly repair costs.

Myth No. 7: Insurance Automatically Pays for a Rental After an Accident

Fact: Rental car reimbursement is an optional add-on. Unless you specifically select rental reimbursement coverage, your auto policy won’t pay for a temporary vehicle while yours is being repaired.

Advertisement

Myth No. 8: If Your Car is Totaled, Insurance Pays Off Your Loan or Lease

Fact: Car insurance settlement is based on the vehicle’s actual cash value at the time of loss, not what you originally paid – meaning depreciation can leave you owing money on your loan or lease even after a total loss. Gap insurance is a separate optional coverage that can help cover the difference.

“Dispelling myths is about more than just good information – it’s about building insurance confidence,” Yoshizawa said. “We want drivers to make choices based on reality, not rumor.”

To learn more and ensure coverage aligns with how and where you drive, visit MercuryInsurance.com.

Photos courtesy of Shutterstock

SOURCE:

Mercury Insurance

Last Updated on February 28, 2026 by Daily News Staff

The Luxury Letdown: Why Features Alone Don’t Deliver the Full Car-Buying Experience

(Family Features) In a world where everyone is juggling busy schedules and endless choices, it’s only natural to want more from your vehicle. Not just more features, but more comfort, more quality and more enjoyment every time you get behind the wheel.

According to recent survey data from Mazda, 74% of car buyers said special features are “very” or “extremely important,” but 30% admitted they don’t have any features worth showing off to friends or family. This is the “luxury letdown;” the excitement of new features fades, leaving you wanting something more meaningful from your car.

People are looking for more than just bells and whistles. They want a car that feels good to drive, that is thoughtfully designed and that brings more joy and satisfaction to everyday life. It’s not about having the most options or the flashiest tech. It’s about all that and quality, comfort and a sense of connection that lasts long after the new car smell fades.

Beyond the Surface
Forget what you think you know about luxury vehicle features. The most memorable cars are typically built with an incredible attention to detail – a craftsmanship you can see and feel. Smart, thoughtful innovation makes driving better, not more complicated. From the shape of the seats to the way the materials feel under your fingertips, every detail is designed to enhance the experience. In fact, 80% of survey respondents said thoughtful design that makes the driving experience better is extremely or very important during the car-buying process. These subtle touches elevate the everyday and make a car feel truly special.

The Joy of Driving, Reimagined
Driving should be more than a means to get from point A to point B. The most rewarding vehicles are often those that make every journey feel intentional and enjoyable. Responsive handling, intuitive controls and a cabin designed for comfort can transform even the most routine commute into a moment of enjoyment. When a car is engineered to connect driver and road, it brings back the pleasure of driving many have forgotten. For some, this feeling gets lost beneath features and digital overload, but it’s possible to rediscover harmony between driver and car – making every trip feel intentional and rewarding.

Confidence Comes Standard
Safety is more than a feature – it’s a foundation. Advanced safety technologies and strong crash-test ratings provide peace of mind for drivers and their families. With an industry-leading number of Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick+-awarded vehicles – including the Mazda3 Sedan and Hatchback, CX-30, CX-50, CX-50 Hybrid, CX-70, CX-70 PHEV, CX-90 and CX-90 PHEV – Mazda is committed to keeping safety at the forefront. Features like active safety systems, robust body structures and intelligent alerts help keep everyone protected, allowing drivers to focus on the road ahead.

Value That Surprises
Many shoppers believe a premium experience comes with a premium price tag. However, value is found in vehicles that deliver quality, innovation and comfort without the luxury markup. The materials, craftsmanship and driving dynamics often surprise those who expect to pay more for such an experience. It’s not just about what’s included, but how it all comes together to create a sense of satisfaction and pride in ownership. The result is a driving experience that feels special, accessible and built to last.

A New Standard for Everyday Driving
In a world that constantly demands so much, there is a kind of more that stands out. Not just in features, but in the feeling, the craftsmanship and the sheer joy of driving. This is the more of Mazda – a more that is intentional, meaningful and designed to enrich every journey.

When you’re ready for more from your next vehicle, visit Mazdausa.com.

SOURCE:
Mazda