Suggestion: DIY Delivery Center @ Slate Plant in IN

[sodamo]

Yes, I think there was some discussion about taking delivery at regional or service centers. But once your Slate goes on the auto carrier the freight charge will likely be added to the invoice.

true, I’m hoping one is Long Beach. then I just need get it to Matson.

 

[cvollers]

Scout Motors recently announced that "factory delivery" will be available in 2027 at its assembly plant in Blythewood, S.C. I think Slate Auto should take notice and offer the same in Warsaw IN. They should consider requesting a waiver with local government representatives that currently bans this practice.

Here's why:

Taking delivery at the factory should theoretically remove all "freight charges" that typically add $1000 - $1500 to the bottom line. This is consistent with Slate's promise of affordability. Deliveries can be by appointment only so that operations can run smoothly.

I love this idea. Hopefully Slate will have a contracted delivery center in Warsaw (preferably right there on their property…it’s big enough) that also handles all wraps and other mods.

 

[Letas]

I think it would be really cool to have a DIY center at the plant where a person could take delivery of their slate and accessories

There could be an area for the new owner to add on the accessories with someone guiding them

This would give a chance for a person to get some familiarity with their vehicle

They could also have a person to walk the customer through ownership of an EV: charging, washing, care, maintenance, proper planning a trip with charging stations, what apps you will need ect.

They could even help the individual plan their road trip home

just a thought

Late to the party but this adds cost. Ever go to a local brewery and notice they charge more for their beer on-site than in a grocery store? That’s why

 

[sodamo]

Late to the party but this adds cost. Ever go to a local brewery and notice they charge more for their beer on-site than in a grocery store? That’s why

A choice borne by those who chose. My doing so would not be an early choice. Having never even driven an EV let alone own and know how to take care of a maiden voyage from Indian to Long Beach would be an adventure. how many charging stops in 2100 miles?

 

[Letas]

A choice borne by those who chose. My doing so would not be an early choice. Having never even driven an EV let alone own and know how to take care of a maiden voyage from Indian to Long Beach would be an adventure. how many charging stops in 2100 miles?

ABRP shows 17 stops, with the extended range battery. 7hr charge time.

I like the idea. Just not as a cost saver.

 

[sodamo]

ABRP shows 17 stops, with the extended range battery. 7hr charge time.

I like the idea. Just not as a cost saver.

And overnite 😁

 

[skidoofast]

ABRP shows 17 stops, with the extended range battery. 7hr charge time.

I like the idea. Just not as a cost saver.

yes its likely they could charge a convenience fee for this, but knowledge can be invaluable

how many messed up wraps would it take to justify a $200 - $500 convenience fee a Slate employee guiding you through the process of installing your accessories, learning about EV's and a guided process for sending you on your way?

how much would they save by not shipping everything to you or a service center

if your not comfortable DIYing it then your paying someone to do it anyways

Slate would save on logistics and the customer would save on transporting the vehicle

Slate could SELL the EXPERIENCE!!!!

It would not be a requirement but merely an option to those that choose

 

[Kit352]

Saturn did this in Bowling green. You could pick them up at the plant if you wanted. Full factory tour and even a little celebration in your honor. I think they only did it for the first 10 years or so until they went mainstream and sunk the brand. A lot of people chose to pick their car up during the big factory party they did every year. I have some group photos somewhere with all the new owners lined up getting their new saturns.
Slate could learn a lot from Saturn. Both the good and the bad.