Slate Auto launches a navigation device that needs no electricity or software updates
American electric vehicle manufacturer Slate Auto has found a surprisingly simple navigation solution for its screen-free pickup: a paper road atlas. The company is selling a “screenless GPS” for $30, or approximately €26, that needs no internet connection, battery or software updates. It is a deliberately humorous marketing move that underlines Slate’s core aim: to build an electric vehicle that is as simple and affordable as possible.
A navigation device for 2027, with technology from the last century
Slate Auto has added a limited number of Rand McNally 2027 road atlases to its online shop, calling the product Screenless GPS.
The spiral-bound atlas has 154 colour pages and covers the United States, Canada and Mexico. It also includes seven suggested road-trip routes.
Unlike an electronic navigation device, the atlas does not show the vehicle’s location or provide turn-by-turn directions. Nor does it offer live traffic information.
Slate’s message is clear, however. The company believes carmakers do not need to duplicate functions that most drivers already use on their smartphones.
An electric pickup without a central screen
The Slate Truck differs from most modern electric vehicles in its deliberately basic specification.
The cabin has neither a large central screen nor a factory-fitted infotainment system. The vehicle has manually operated side windows and conventional physical climate controls.
A small digital display shows speed, battery charge level and the reversing camera image. Slate provides a separate phone holder and USB-C charging ports.
This allows owners to use Google Maps, Apple Maps or other apps without a carmaker’s infotainment system.
Slate cites lower production costs and simpler maintenance as the reasons for this approach. The absence of built-in screens and complex software helps reduce the number of components and potential repair costs.
135 kW and approximately 330 km of range
Slate’s first production model is a two-door, rear-wheel-drive electric pickup with a 135 kW electric motor mounted on the rear axle.
The manufacturer promises approximately 330 km on a single charge. This is a preliminary estimate based on the US EPA test cycle, rather than an officially certified range.
The starting price is $24,950, or approximately €21,500, excluding taxes and delivery costs. Buyers can choose from more than 200 optional extras and, if they wish, convert the pickup into a five-seat SUV.
First deliveries are expected to begin in late 2026.
Do European buyers need more cars like this?
Slate’s approach differs markedly from the automotive industry’s current direction, in which ever-larger screens and software services are making vehicles more complex.
In Europe, a simple electric pickup could appeal to small businesses, maintenance companies and people living in suburban areas. However, its relatively short range and lack of European type approval limit its prospects.
Slate has not confirmed any European sales plans.
The paper atlas is, of course, more of a marketing joke than a serious navigation solution. But behind it lies a valid question: why should a car buyer pay for a large central screen, complex infotainment and duplicate apps when the phone in their pocket already does the same job?
Slate is betting that some buyers will prefer a simpler, cheaper vehicle to an abundance of technology. Whether that approach also works commercially will become clear once the first vehicles reach customers.
