Jeff Bezos Secretly Backs Slate Auto, a Michigan-Based EV Startup
- Jeff Bezos is backing Slate Auto, an EV startup aiming to produce a $25K electric pickup truck by 2026.
- Slate raised $111M in Series A funding and closed a Series B round with wealthy investors joining its board.
- The company plans to supplement vehicle sales with high-margin accessories and apparel for customization.
Jeff Bezos is quietly funding Slate Auto, a Michigan-based electric vehicle (EV) startup aiming to disrupt the market with an affordable, two-seat electric pickup truck priced at $25,000.
Founded in 2022 within Re:Build Manufacturing—a company co-created by former Amazon Consumer CEO Jeff Wilke—Slate has operated under the radar, hiring hundreds of employees from major automotive players like Ford, General Motors, Stellantis, and Harley-Davidson.
Slate Auto raised $111 million in a Series A round in 2023, with Bezos’ family office playing a key role. Melinda Lewison, who manages Bezos’ investments, is listed as a director in official filings.
The startup closed a Series B round late last year but has yet to file paperwork with the SEC. Wealthy investors Mark Walter and Thomas Tull have joined Slate’s board after contributing to the Series B round.
Slate plans to start production by late 2026 at a facility near Indianapolis, Indiana. The startup’s vision draws inspiration from iconic vehicles like the Ford Model T and Volkswagen Beetle, aiming to create an affordable, customizable EV that appeals to first-time buyers.
Slate is developing high-margin accessories and apparel to supplement its low-margin truck sales—a strategy reminiscent of Harley-Davidson and Stellantis’ MoPar division.
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The company has deep ties to Amazon. Alongside Bezos’ involvement, several former Amazon executives are part of Slate’s leadership team. The startup’s original name, Re:Car, reflects Amazon’s branding style.
Unlike many EV startups that launch with high-end models, Slate is bucking the trend by targeting affordability and personalization.
Its “WE BUILT IT. YOU MAKE IT” trademark hints at a customer-centric approach where owners can upgrade their vehicles over time.
Despite operating in a challenging EV market, Slate’s innovative strategy and significant funding position it as a promising contender in the industry. However, neither Bezos nor Slate representatives have commented publicly on the project.
Edited by Annette George
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