Slate EV Pickup Ditches Connectivity to Put Privacy First

Slate Auto is taking a radically different approach to vehicle technology with its upcoming electric pickup, eliminating the embedded cellular modem that has become standard across the automotive industry. The decision means the truck cannot continuously transmit location data, receive over-the-air updates, or support many remote-access features common in modern vehicles, but it also dramatically limits the ability of automakers, third parties, and data brokers to collect information about drivers.

The approach positions privacy as a core selling point for the startup’s minimalist EV, which has been designed to challenge assumptions about what modern vehicles actually need.

Slate strips away connected features in pursuit of simplicity

While most automakers are increasingly turning vehicles into always-connected software platforms, Slate is moving in the opposite direction.

According to the company, its electric pickup is built from just 600 parts and intentionally excludes many features consumers have come to expect. The truck does not include a traditional infotainment screen and even uses manual crank windows instead of electric switches, according to Autoblog.

The most notable omission, however, is the cellular modem. Nearly every modern vehicle uses embedded connectivity hardware to support services such as remote vehicle access, over-the-air software updates, diagnostics, navigation services, and smartphone integration.

Without a modem, Slate’s truck is physically incapable of continuously sending location and usage data back to the manufacturer or third-party services.

Owners can still access vehicle settings, drive modes, and charging information through a smartphone app, but only when they are physically inside or standing next to the vehicle. Unlike many EVs, there is no ability to remotely precondition the cabin, monitor charging progress from across town, or unlock the vehicle from a distant location.

The result is a driving experience that prioritizes simplicity and ownership over digital convenience.

Privacy becomes a key differentiator in the EV market

Slate’s strategy arrives as automakers face growing scrutiny over vehicle data collection practices. Modern connected vehicles can gather information ranging from location history and driving behavior to infotainment usage and diagnostic data.

For many manufacturers, that information has become increasingly valuable as software and connected services evolve into recurring revenue opportunities.

Slate executives have said the company intends to collect only the data necessary to improve vehicle ownership and has pledged not to treat customers as products for advertisers or data brokers.

The approach may resonate with consumers concerned about digital privacy, though it also comes with tradeoffs. Many drivers have grown accustomed to remote climate controls, live vehicle monitoring, and seamless software updates.

There are also regulatory challenges. Certain markets, particularly in Europe, require embedded connectivity systems to support emergency services and other safety functions.

Still, Slate appears willing to bet that a meaningful segment of buyers would prefer fewer features in exchange for greater privacy and transparency. In an automotive industry racing toward ever-greater connectivity, the startup is making the case that sometimes less technology may actually be more.

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