Slate updates its minimalist electric truck via owners’ phones
Slate Auto’s truck receives over-the-air software updates through a phone app, despite lacking built-in cellular connectivity and infotainment. The approach fits the vehicle’s minimalist design and its bid to offer a lower-cost electric truck by omitting features unrelated to driving and safety.
When an update is available, the app downloads it to the owner’s phone; connecting the phone to the truck’s USB port transfers the file in about a minute, followed by an installation that takes around 45 minutes. Slate says updates will focus on bug fixes and small improvements. The truck starts below $25,000, but a fully equipped version can exceed $45,000; its estimated range is 205 miles, with a 1,550-pound payload and 2,000-pound towing capacity.
- A phone app delivers updates to Slate’s truck.
- File transfer takes about a minute; installation takes around 45 minutes.
- The truck starts below $25,000 but can exceed $45,000 with options.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Using a phone to deliver updates can support the truck’s minimalist design and help keep its starting price lower by avoiding built-in connectivity and infotainment hardware. Owners still receive bug fixes and improvements, while the straightforward USB transfer may suit buyers who value simplicity over a connected-car experience.
The case against
Relying on an owner’s phone and a USB connection makes updates less convenient than an automatic in-car system, and the 45-minute installation can add further friction. Buyers may also question the value of a minimalist, lower-priced model if the fully equipped version exceeds $45,000, particularly when the vehicle lacks connectivity features that many expect.
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Originally published by Engadget as “Here’s how the Slate truck gets software updates without built-in infotainment”.