Slate Auto's low-cost EV bet is about to be tested

Driving the news: Slate on Wednesday confirmed the under-$25,000 MSRP for the simple two-seat pickup truck and said an SUV version will start at $29,950.

• Pre-orders begin today, requiring a $300 deposit.
• It has a driving range of 205 miles, can tow up to 2,000 pounds and has a payload capacity of 1,550 pounds.
• What it doesn't have is a radio or touchscreen — or about half the parts found in a typical truck.

The intrigue: Slate's goal is to provide an affordable EV that people can customize gradually over time.

• "Slate gives customers the freedom to buy only what they need today and personalize their vehicle as their needs change tomorrow," said Peter Faricy, the former Amazon Marketplace vice president who became Slate CEO in March.

Between the lines: More than 175 accessories will be available from the Slate Marketplace, with more than 80 costing less than $500 — including roof racks, stereos, zip-off seat covers and light covers.

• The truck isn't painted, but buyers can choose from more than 100 wrap colors for $500 — or pick their own custom color.

Reality check: It's a $25,000 electric truck, sure, but once people add all their preferences, Slate buyers are likely to pay a lot more.

What we're watching: How many of those reservation holders turn into actual buyers.