The Slate is a Coupe Utility Vehicle (CUV)

[Dorbiman]

I think it’s all perspective. To me, this thing is a pretty kei truck.

 

[SichuanHot]

CUV could also mean compact utility vehicle.

 

[AZFox]

The designation has been around for at least 90 years.

 

[GaRailroader]

The designation has been around for at least 90 years.

Surely this was never referred to as a coupe utility vehicle 90 years ago.

 

[GaRailroader]

Surely this was never referred to as a coupe utility vehicle 90 years ago.

Well. I stand corrected. Apparently coupe utility vehicle is the designation given to El Camino type car pick-ups. You learn something new everyday.

 

[AZFox]

Surely this was never referred to as a coupe utility vehicle 90 years ago.

91, actually. That's a 1934 model.

 

[SichuanHot]

So, a Honda Ridgeline is a Sedan Utility Vehicle?

I thought those are called trucklets since they're based off unibody chassis like the Maverick and Santa Fe.

 

[AZFox]

So, a Honda Ridgeline is a Sedan Utility Vehicle?

Does it matter? Not to me.

Semantics aren't the point. Realistic expectations are.

There's Compact Car in the Slate's DNA. Expect accordingly.

 

[AZFox]

The Slate (in pickup body style) and Ridgeline are two utes.

 

[metroshot]

I'm curious to see how this will play out for registration. Here in CA, any truck is given commercial plates. My 1979 Dodge W150 isn't used for any commercial work, but still has commercial plates. Same with anything like an old Mitsubishi Mighty Max, or a Maverick. I'm interested in seeing how things will work for those that go from truck to SUV.

Correct!
Even though the Slate is probably a CUV instead of the traditional chassis on frame design, it might be a Commercial class in California.

Should be interesting how Slate determines the classification according to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA):

"Federal Auto Designation Classes: Pickups, SUVs, and Multi-Purpose Vehicles
In the United States, pickup trucks and SUVs are primarily classified based on their Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). This system, which ranges from Class 1 to Class 9, is crucial for purposes like safety regulations, commercial use designation, and licensing requirements."