Photo Courtesy: Autorepublika.Slate Auto has built its entire identity around one simple promise: delivering an affordable electric pickup truck. Since unveiling its minimalist EV, the startup has repeatedly emphasized low pricing as a key selling point, positioning the truck as an alternative to increasingly expensive electric and gasoline-powered pickups.Now, it appears the company may have accidentally revealed exactly what that truck will cost. According to The Autopian, pricing information briefly appeared within Slate's own website code, suggesting a starting price of $24,950 before the information was removed.The apparent leak arrives just days before Slate is expected to officially announce pricing, and it offers the clearest indication yet of what buyers can expect to pay when the truck reaches production.AdvertisementAdvertisementWhile the figure is higher than some early expectations, it may not tell the whole story. The final value proposition could ultimately depend on incentives, options, and whether buyers embrace Slate's stripped-down approach to vehicle design.A Price Hidden In Plain SightPhoto Courtesy: Autorepublika.The pricing discovery reportedly originated from Slate's preorder webpage, where a line of text embedded within the site's metadata referenced a "CONFIDENTIAL" price of $24,950.The text appeared alongside internal website content and included a note stating that those involved were still under a non-disclosure agreement and prohibited from sharing the figure. Although invisible to casual visitors, the information was accessible through the page's source code before it was removed.A separate report also pointed to a now-deleted webpage that allegedly displayed the same price, adding further credibility to the leaked figure. Slate has not publicly confirmed the pricing and had not responded to requests for comment at the time the reports surfaced.Higher Than The Original PromiseThe leaked number immediately sparked debate because Slate's early marketing heavily emphasized a price below $20,000. That figure generated considerable attention, especially as electric vehicle prices have continued to climb across the industry.AdvertisementAdvertisementHowever, the original sub-$20,000 target was always tied to federal EV incentives that have since changed significantly. Without those incentives, a starting price in the mid-$20,000 range aligns more closely with recent comments from company executives.If the truck qualifies for applicable EV incentives, the effective purchase price could still fall below $20,000 for eligible buyers. Whether that happens will depend on battery sourcing requirements, production details, and future government policy.What Buyers Get For The MoneyPhoto Courtesy: Autorepublika.Unlike most modern pickups, Slate's truck intentionally avoids expensive features and complex technology. The base model is designed as a minimalist work vehicle, featuring manual windows, a simple interior, and unpainted composite body panels.Power comes from a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 201 horsepower. A standard 52.7-kWh battery pack targets approximately 150 miles of range, while an optional larger battery is expected to increase range to around 240 miles.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe compact pickup also offers a payload rating of 1,433 pounds and towing capacity of 1,000 pounds. Buyers can later transform the truck into SUV-like configurations using modular accessories and conversion kits.Competition Is Already Heating UpEven before production begins, Slate faces growing competition in the affordable EV segment. Ford is developing its own low-cost electric pickup that is expected to start around $30,000 while offering a more traditional four-door layout and additional standard equipment.That creates an interesting challenge for Slate. A difference of roughly $5,000 may seem significant, but some buyers could view Ford's larger size, additional practicality, and broader dealer support as worth the premium.On the other hand, Slate's simplicity may appeal to customers seeking a lightweight, inexpensive utility vehicle rather than a fully loaded lifestyle truck. The company appears to be betting that a portion of the market still values affordability over luxury features.The Real Test Comes Later This MonthPhoto Courtesy: Autorepublika.The reported leak may have revealed Slate's starting price, but several important questions remain unanswered. Buyers still do not know final specifications, option pricing, or whether federal incentives will significantly lower the effective purchase cost.AdvertisementAdvertisementThose details could have a major impact on how the truck is received. A $24,950 sticker price may seem reasonable for a purpose-built electric pickup, but accessories, battery upgrades, and customization options could quickly raise the total investment.For now, the apparent website mishap has given enthusiasts their strongest clue yet about Slate's plans. With the company expected to formally announce pricing soon, it likely won't be long before everyone learns whether the leaked figure was a genuine mistake or simply an unconventional way to build anticipation for one of the most closely watched EV startups in the industry.If you want more stories like this, follow Guessing Headlights on Yahoo so you don't miss what's coming next.