Special Q&A for Reservation Holders w/ Slate Auto CEO

[sodamo]

I’m hopeful the rollbar is strictly passenger safety. I’ve had a topper on most of my pickups, non required a rollbar.

 

[bartflossom]

I’m hopeful the rollbar is strictly passenger safety. I’ve had a topper on most of my pickups, non required a rollbar.

Understood and I'm hopeful too. But the SUV kit requires removal of the back wall of the cab which would provide some rollover protection in the pickup configuration. I fear the rollbar may be needed due to that as much as it is needed to protect seated back passengers.

 

[sodamo]

Understood and I'm hopeful too. But the SUV kit requires removal of the back wall of the cab which would provide some rollover protection in the pickup configuration. I fear the rollbar may be needed due to that as much as it is needed to protect seated back passengers.

Hadn’t thought of that, but I can’t imagine the fleet/van configuration would be giving up space for the rollbar.
that said, I’d be happy with the more traditional configuration, leaving the midgate in place and having a rear window that opens.

 

[Susan]

This could get very very interesting. AZFox already posted my top question..
i’m wondering if the more they see same or similar question they see the importance of the issue.

That's what I'm hoping. I plan to ask about that too. Along with:

-Can I get rails on that topper?
-What's the dynamic roof load of the Slate with this topper?

Also asking about dimensions of the roof, the frunk and the bed.

Got my invite, looking forward to this event. 😃

 

[AZFox]

They have said it does not need to be in the dash to start the vehicle.

https://www.slateforums.com/forum/t...te-climate-control-lock-unlock-via-app.13079/

From that post, the agent wrote this:

The Slate truck will feature keyless entry and push-to-start capabilities, so you won't need to insert the key fob into the dash. The Slate App will allow you to remotely activate climate control, lock/unlock doors, and more. However, I don't have information about any subscription fees for these features at the moment

There's a lot not to like about that agent's reply.

If the smartphone app can "allow you to remotely activate climate control, lock/unlock doors, and more" it will be exploited eventually. How does it connect? Bluetooth? WiFi? Cellular dongle?

This isn't necessary and belies Slate's Radically Simple ethos.

I would MUCH prefer the Secure Key Ignition Module described by the CEO thusly:

Unlike conventional push-to-start systems or traditional keyed ignitions, this system requires the driver to insert the key fob into a dedicated slot on the dashboard to start the vehicle. Once inserted, the fob passes a secure electronic code to the vehicle’s control system, enabling the motor to engage​

Also note that dash doesn't have a Start button.

I think the way it should be is where a button on the fob enables preconditioning and inserting the fob starts the vehicle.

 

[danielt1263]

I just want a class 3 hitch for my bike rack.

I've already asked about a hitch (I will be towing my boat) and they said there would be one available.

 

[danielt1263]

I asked about when we will get a more precise price for the truck and prices for the accessories.

 

[cadblu]

Also note that dash doesn't have a Start button.

I think the way it should be is where a button on the fob enables preconditioning and inserting the fob starts the vehicle.

Regarding the start button, Slate should simply follow Tesla’s lead. No start button, no key fob, just tap the brake pedal, select a gear and off you go. Your phone is the key (via Bluetooth connection). Or as in my case, the fwd or reverse gear is already selected for you. Slate already advocates bringing your own phone/tech so this is consistent with their design approach.

 

[AZFox]

Your phone is the key (via Bluetooth connection).

Yikes! 😧

Fortunately no phone is required, just the fob. (I asked.)

This is as it should be.

Your phone is the key (via Bluetooth connection). Or as in my case, the fwd or reverse gear is already selected for you. Slate already advocates bringing your own phone/tech so this is consistent with their design approach.

Requiring a phone to operate the vehicle isn't at all consistent with the Slate's Radically Simple ethos IMHO.

 

[ZuliMuli]

From that post, the agent wrote this:

Unlike conventional push-to-start systems or traditional keyed ignitions, this system requires the driver to insert the key fob into a dedicated slot on the dashboard to start the vehicle. Once inserted, the fob passes a secure electronic code to the vehicle’s control system, enabling the motor to engage​

Also note that dash doesn't have a Start button.

I think the way it should be is where a button on the fob enables preconditioning and inserting the fob starts the vehicle.

Where did you find that, I had been looking for it and couldn't find it.

 

[cadblu]

Yikes! 😧

Fortunately no phone is required, just the fob. (I asked.)

This is as it should be.

Requiring a phone to operate the vehicle isn't at all consistent with the Slate's Radically Simple ethos IMHO.

Correct, a phone isn't required, but why is Slate developing software to create a phone app? For the folks who want to lock / unlock remotely or precondition the climate control?

My point is, If it adds extra cost and complexity (contrary to Slate's mission) why is the app standard equipment when it could be an add-on option? As many have pointed out, there are other inconsistencies in what's offered vs. what is actually needed. And here is another.