Slate EV Skips Cellular, Uses Your Phone for Software Updates
The sub-$25,000 pickup relies on a tethered smartphone connection for firmware patches, avoiding the data privacy pitfalls of embedded modems.
The Slate electric truck has no built-in cellular modem. To receive over-the-air software updates, the sub-$25,000 pickup forces owners to download firmware patches through a smartphone app and physically plug their device into the dashboard USB port, according to the company.
This tethered workaround separates Slate Auto from every major automaker selling connected vehicles in the U.S. market today. Since Tesla popularized remote vehicle patching roughly a decade ago, embedded 4G and 5G modems have become standard hardware across the industry. General Motors, Ford and Rivian push safety recalls and feature additions directly to dashboards via onboard Wi-Fi or cellular connections. Slate opted out of that infrastructure entirely to keep its base price below $25,000.
The transfer process requires about one minute of wired connection time. After the initial file handoff, the truck completes the installation independently over roughly 45 minutes, the company said. Patches will be restricted to bug fixes and minor improvements rather than major feature rollouts.
Stripping out the telematics hardware also removes a liability that has plagued legacy manufacturers. GM faced intense backlash and federal scrutiny after Reuters reported in 2024 that the automaker shared driver behavior data collected through its OnStar system with consumer reporting agencies, leading to insurance premium spikes. By lacking an internal cellular link, the Slate truck cannot transmit telemetry in the background. The company stated it collects only diagnostic and update status information and will not sell app data.
The base model ships without a radio, speakers, power windows or factory paint, relying instead on vinyl wraps. Buyers can purchase add-ons including an iPad mount, speakers and a telematics module for in-app door unlocking. A fully loaded configuration pushes the price past $45,000.
Range is estimated at 205 miles per charge. The truck carries a 1,550-pound maximum payload and a 2,000-pound tow rating. The companion mobile application handles battery range displays, charging station locations and routing exports to Google Maps, Apple Maps and Waze.
