Slate Auto gets serious about privacy for its bare-bones EV pickup Slate Auto is building a minimalist electric pickup truck with only 600 parts, emphasizing privacy by foregoing an embedded modem and infotainment system. While a smartphone app manages settings and provides vehicle information locally, it does not offer remote access, and the company assures that customer data will not be sold. This approach caters to consumers seeking a “dumb” EV, contrasting with the industry trend towards increasingly connected vehicles and concerns over data monetization and security.

• Slate Auto is developing a minimalist electric pickup truck with a stripped-down design of only 600 parts.
• The truck features a basic interior with manual windows and no infotainment system, prioritizing privacy.
• A smartphone app manages settings and provides vehicle data when connected locally, but there is no embedded modem for remote access.
• Slate Auto states that collected data will be used to improve ownership and product experience, not sold to third parties, with privacy being a core product feature.
• This approach contrasts with the industry trend of connected cars and concerns over data collection, security, and monetization by automakers.
• Regulations in Europe require embedded modems for emergency services, while the US faces scrutiny over OEM data collection practices and potential monetization. Continue reading https://arstechnica.com/cars/2026/06/slate-says-its-electric-pickup-will-never-track-you/