Slate Truck Uses Phone Tether for OTA Updates Without Built-In Cellular
The budget EV lacks built-in infotainment or cellular connectivity, requiring owners to tether their smartphones to install software patches.
Key points
- The Slate truck installs updates by downloading files to a smartphone app, then transferring them via USB cable.
- The base vehicle lacks a radio, speakers, power windows, and a paint job to keep the entry price under $25,000.
- Owners can purchase optional add-ons, including an iPad mount and telematics module, pushing the price above $45,000.
Slate Auto has implemented a smartphone-dependent method for delivering over-the-air software updates to its electric truck, which lacks built-in cellular connectivity. According to a report by Engadget, the vehicle relies on the owner’s personal device to bridge the gap between the manufacturer’s servers and the truck’s onboard systems.
The update process begins with the Slate app on the user’s phone downloading the necessary software files. The owner must then physically connect the smartphone to the truck’s dashboard USB port. This tethered connection allows the initial file transfer, which takes approximately one minute, before the truck proceeds with the installation autonomously.
Minimalist Design and Business Model
The reliance on external devices stems from the company’s core business strategy of radical minimalism. Slate Auto aims to reach a sub-$25,000 entry price by removing features deemed unrelated to driving and safety. Consequently, the base version of the EV skips standard amenities such as a radio, speakers, and power windows. The vehicle even arrives with a vinyl wrap instead of a traditional paint job.
Despite the stripped-down nature of the base model, the company offers a wide range of optional add-ons. Customers can purchase speakers, an iPad mount to create a traditional infotainment experience, and a kit that converts the cab into a five-seat SUV. A telematics module is also available, which enables in-app door unlocking. A fully loaded configuration of this modular vehicle can exceed $45,000.
Technical Specifications and Data Privacy
The electric truck is designed for short-run hauling and errands rather than long-distance travel. It offers an estimated range of 205 miles, a maximum payload capacity of 1,550 pounds, and a tow rating of 2,000 pounds. These specifications position it as a utility-focused vehicle rather than a direct competitor to full-size electric pickups.
Regarding data handling, the company states it will not sell app data to third parties. The Slate app collects only the information necessary for diagnostics, service requests, and tracking update status. The same application used for updates also displays remaining range, helps locate charging stations, and sends directions to mapping services like Google Maps, Apple Maps, or Waze.
What should you do?
Owners of the Slate truck should ensure their mobile devices have sufficient storage and battery life before initiating an update. The process requires a stable connection between the phone and the vehicle’s USB port for the initial transfer. Users should also monitor the Slate app for notifications regarding bug fixes and small improvements, as major feature additions are not expected.
What to do and how to stay safe: Slate Auto
- Check that your smartphone has enough free storage space to download the update file before connecting to the vehicle.
- Ensure your phone is sufficiently charged to complete the initial one-minute USB transfer without interruption.
- Keep the Slate app updated on your device to ensure compatibility with the latest truck firmware versions.
- Verify that the vehicle is parked in a safe location with adequate battery charge before starting the 45-minute installation.
Step-by-step guide: Mobile Device Security: How to Protect Data Beyond Passwords
General security guidance from the Threat Times newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.
Frequently asked questions
How does the Slate truck receive software updates without built-in cellular?
The truck uses the owner’s smartphone to download update files via the Slate app, then transfers them to the vehicle through a USB connection.
What features are missing from the base version of the Slate truck?
The base model lacks an infotainment system, radio, speakers, power windows, and a paint job, relying instead on a vinyl wrap.
Can owners add connectivity features to the Slate truck?
Yes, owners can purchase optional add-ons such as an iPad mount for infotainment and a telematics module for in-app door unlocking.
