A few weeks back, a small electric truck from the EV startup Slate gained significant traction online—and that excitement seems to be transforming into real consumer interest.

As reported by TechCrunch, Slate has tallied over 100,000 refundable reservations for its budget-friendly electric truck just two weeks following its official launch. This spike in interest indicates a robust demand for affordable electric vehicles, particularly as some American consumers choose to move away from Elon Musk’s Tesla.

“We are genuinely grateful for America’s reaction to Slate’s brand introduction and the unveiling of our truck,” stated Jeremy Snyder, Slate’s Chief Commercial Officer. “We look forward to what lies ahead.”

Nonetheless, it’s crucial to keep in mind that a reservation does not ensure a purchase. Each reservation only necessitates a $50 deposit, which merely holds a spot in line for the possibility of buying the vehicle when it becomes available. Converting those reservations into actual sales poses a considerable challenge.

The truck itself differentiates itself within the American EV landscape. As Mashable’s Timothy Beck Werth noted, Slate’s electric truck—priced starting around $20,000—serves as the opposite of Tesla’s Cybertruck. It’s a straightforward, made-in-America option featuring practical elements like manual crank windows and a universal device holder rather than a built-in screen. While the Cybertruck has faced criticism for its extravagant design and numerous recalls, Slate’s vehicle intends to provide a simple, customizable, and dependable alternative.

Slate aims to start delivering its trucks in late 2026.