In a market dominated by high-tech screens, luxury trims, and soaring EV prices, a humble new contender is stealing the spotlight — the Blank Slate. Developed by startup Slate, this minimalist electric pickup truck is turning heads not for what it has, but for what it doesn’t.

Priced at around $25,000, the no-frills vehicle has already racked up over 100,000 reservations — and it hasn’t even hit the streets yet.

What sets the Blank Slate apart is its simplicity. With just two seats, no multimedia center, and a clean, utilitarian design, the truck challenges the conventions of modern electric vehicles. But it’s exactly this stripped-down approach that’s drawing in a wide variety of buyers.

“These are people who see value in what really matters: practical, no-frills transportation at a fair price,” said Chris Barman, CEO of Slate, in an interview with Sherwood News.

A Workhorse for the Everyday American

The lion’s share of reservations, according to Barman, come from ordinary workers — plumbers, landscapers, delivery drivers, and tradespeople — who need something functional, durable, and affordable. Despite a recent price increase, interest remains high.

Its lack of digital complexity also makes the Blank Slate easier to maintain and modify, an appealing feature for those who use their vehicles as tools rather than tech showcases.

Young Drivers and Customization Fans Take Notice

Another growing demographic of buyers is young adults — recent graduates from colleges and technical schools — who see the Blank Slate as a customizable “blank canvas” for their creativity.

The truck’s minimalist frame allows easy personalization, making it a hit with DIY car enthusiasts and younger consumers uninterested in high-cost, screen-heavy EVs.

Parents and Retirees See Simplicity as Safety

For parents, the truck offers something rarely emphasized in today’s EV market: driver focus. With no dashboard distractions, it’s seen as a safer option for teen drivers.

“There’s no time to check your phone or get distracted by the dashboard. Just drive, period,” Barman noted.

Meanwhile, a significant portion of interest is coming from retirees and semi-retired Americans, whom Slate has dubbed “contemporary seniors.” These buyers want the benefits of electric mobility, but without the tech overload — they value simplicity over sophistication.

A Cult Favorite in the Making?

Surprisingly, even automotive hobbyists and modders are eyeing the Blank Slate. With a low price and an adaptable design, the truck offers a rare opportunity for creative builds and conversions — from off-road mods to art-car projects.

Some see it as the electric version of the classic kit car: a platform to build upon, rather than a finished product.

Challenges Ahead

Despite the overwhelming interest, Slate faces hurdles. The recent removal of the federal EV tax credit in the U.S. has raised concerns about affordability. Combined with rising production costs, it remains to be seen whether Slate can convert its massive reservation list into real-world sales.

Still, the early success of the Blank Slate points to a significant shift in consumer priorities. In an era where more tech often means higher prices and complexity, many are looking for something refreshingly simple.

And in that regard, Slate might just have found its niche — uniting blue-collar workers, Gen Z drivers, cautious parents, and modern seniors under the same minimalist roof.