Slate’s Tiny Affordable Pickup Is Primed for a Huge Truck UpsetGear PatrolgvandykeUpdatedThu, September 17, 2026 at 5:50 PM UTCAdd us on GoogleThe Slate Truck has yet to go on sale, but that hasn't stopped it from making inroads as a contender for an important pickup accolade.Between its sub-$25,000 starting price, stripped-back simplicity and expansive customization options, the Slate Truck promises something very different from other pickups on the market.Still, despite the startup's announcement of collaborative projects, starter packs and various other add-ons, the vehicle itself hasn't actually hit the market.The Slate Truck has landed alongside some much larger competition in the race for NACTOY truck of the year. - Credit: Slate AutoEven so, it doesn't seem to be having trouble making inroads. In fact, Slate is poised to stage a notable truck upset this year.A pick unlike the restThat's because the field for the 2026 North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year (NACTOY) finalists is here, and the Slate Truck has landed among the vehicles vying for the honor of top truck.Slate's pickup still hasn't hit the market, but it's already making inroads. - Credit: Slate AutoMind you, that puts it in contention with just three others for a spot among the finalists. The NACTOY jury started with 56 eligible vehicles and selected 25 as contenders, only four of which are trucks.AdvertisementAdvertisementAs if that wasn't impressive enough, the other pickups are big names. In addition to GM heavy hitters in the Silverado 1500 and the Sierra 1500, the Slate truck is also lining up against the Ram 1500 TRX SRT.I think it goes without saying, but it's a curious spread. While the Chevy and GMC are likely enough inclusions, the TRX is a decidedly niche vehicle because it brings a six-figure price tag and 777 horsepower.Slate is bucking the status quo in more ways than one, and it makes for a true underdog story. - Credit: Slate AutoIn any case, the Slate Truck has the chance to make a stand for both the brand and for small trucks. It's a genuine underdog story, as the startup has been challenging the status quo without the dealer network or reputation of rivals.The missing nameIn addition to Slate's inclusion, Ford's absence from the truck category is another notable development.Ford is bound to have noticed Slate's inclusion this year. - Credit: Slate AutoFor one, the Blue Oval has fared exceptionally well in past NACTOY judging. From 2021 to 2026, Ford took home the title of truck of the year all six times (consecutively).AdvertisementAdvertisementWhat's more, the brand's winners have spanned its lineup. From the Maverick and the Ranger to the Super Duty and even the F-150 Lightning, Ford's trucks have proven to be consistent nominees.Ford will eventually contest Slate with its Fathom EV. - Credit: Slate AutoIt's likely that updates to models like the 2027 F-150 weren't enough to stand out. Still, I'd say that Ford's omission is especially important given Slate's inclusion.Whether the EV wins or not, the 2027 Truck of the Year conversation is now partly about what the segment could become, not just what it already is. Remember, Ford has a rival on the way in the Fathom.About the Author: Gray is an associate editor at Gear Patrol, covering cars, motorcycles and anything else with wheels. When he's not chasing the latest industry news, he's probably wrenching on one of many projects. For better or worse, he believes classics make perfectly practical daily drivers.AdvertisementAdvertisementWant to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.