Video: Slate SUV top rear glass hinge flips up + cargo area room / size (relative to hockey bag)

[sodamo]

Just yesterday I received a reply (two, actually...I asked a lot of questions) to my questions for Chris' Q&A. Most of the answers, as usual, were we'll let you know once things are finalized. Here's what I got regarding the SUV tops:

"Regarding cargo and roof options, the SUV and Fastback configurations are designed as integrated systems rather than standalone shells. We’re planning different roof and cargo configurations to support a range of use cases, but specifics around window options, opening and locking mechanisms, rear defrosting, and related features will be shared closer to the order window. Those details are tied closely to safety, sealing, and certification, which is why we’re waiting to publish them until everything is finalized."

I hope ”integrated systems” isn’t code for expensive. My low cost Slate needs low cost topper solution for my dogs.

 

[KevinRS]

If you just need a shell, you don't need the kits Slate is offering. At least not the ones they have advertised so far. I'm sure there will be "Just a shell" options available, if not through the slate marketplace, then directly from 3rd parties.

 

[AZFox]

"Regarding cargo and roof options, the SUV and Fastback configurations are designed as integrated systems rather than standalone shells. We’re planning different roof and cargo configurations to support a range of use cases, but specifics around window options, opening and locking mechanisms, rear defrosting, and related features will be shared closer to the order window. Those details are tied closely to safety, sealing, and certification, which is why we’re waiting to publish them until everything is finalized."

This is a better-than-usual answer.
Good to see.
Thanks for posting it.

 

[KevinRS]

This is a better-than-usual answer.
Good to see.
Thanks for posting it.

Yeah, the wording reinforces my thoughts on them. It looks like the "roll bars with airbags" are a framework that the kit panels attach to, meaning the panels are not self supporting.

 

[AZFox]

I hope ”integrated systems” isn’t code for expensive. My low cost Slate needs low cost topper solution for my dogs.

I interpreted "integrated" to mean that the rollbar and shell are interdependent so there isn't a just-a-shell option (yet).

"We’re planning different roof and cargo configurations to support a range of use cases" could include just-a-shell (ideally with pop-out windows) plus midgate a.k.a. Canine Cargo Combo.

 

[E90400K]

This is a better-than-usual answer.
Good to see.
Thanks for posting it.

"Those details are tied closely to safety, sealing, and certification"

I've been trying to decipher this statement, because with production being so close, I don't understand why the details on how the rear glass is implemented is still not finalized:

Safety - does that mean is the rear glass in the pickup cab going to be hinged and will be able to be opened for venting(?), which means it will need a lock mechanism.

Sealing - I can see this as an issue for the slantback SUV. Considering the rear of the cab (the halo) transfers to the rear of the squareback SUV hinging and locking remain a question. I would think the slantback SUV will have its own rear glass design because the sealing (of a swing-open glass) is more of an issue.

Certification - Does that get back to the semi-opening of the pickup truck cab? I don't know all for the DOT regs for rear glass, but I'd bet the design is not as regulated as say, the windshield and door glass. Obviously, it will be automotive safety glass.

If one looks at the Bronco and Wrangler, the rear glass of the tailgate is locked closed by the swing-open tailgate. An easy solution, but using the same rear halo from the truck cab for the SUV complicates the implementation unless the removable front bed wall locks the rear glass of the cab in place. This is why the hockey bag video was confusing as much as annoying (to me at least). IMO, the design details should be locked in by now if the factory is being stood up with manufacturing equipment and assembly procedures being developed. Just my opinion.

 

[cadblu]

IMO, the design details should be locked in by now if the factory is being stood up with manufacturing equipment and assembly procedures being developed. Just my opinion.

Actually, I think the cab portion of the design is fully worked out by now, which (strictly speaking) means it won't affect the main two-door pickup production line. As to the comment "safety, sealing, certification and integration" I consider this a direct reference to the SUV variants, which are still being designed / refined as a subassembly line, in parallel. And then shipped separately or flat packed inside the cargo bed at delivery. At some point the 'safety aspects' will be demonstrated during crash hazard testing. Everything should 'catch up' in time before ordering and delivery.

 

[TomFrank]

In addition to the SUV configurations I asked them about, I also inquired about rear footwell access from the cab in a pickup configuration in addition to the pickup rear window. I also asked battery questions and about accessory hookup options. Here's the rest of the reply I received cobbled together from a couple of emails. I find the last statement somewhat encouraging.

"For pickup-specific questions like rear access, tonneau-style solutions, and cargo management, those are all areas we’re actively thinking about. We want the truck to remain practical and adaptable without introducing unnecessary complexity. As with other features, we’ll release confirmed details once designs are locked and buildable.

Firstly, what I can tell you right now is that yes, we will have regenerative braking, pre-conditioning and other battery maintenance and more through the Slate app. As for the rest, stay tuned for more information as we move towards production.

On provisions for accessories and electronics, Slate is being designed with flexibility in mind. We know many owners want to add things like audio equipment, handsfree calling solutions, dashcams, or upgraded mirrors, and the platform is intended to support add-ons without being overly restrictive. That said, final details around specific mounting points, wiring access, power availability, and how auxiliary buttons can be configured are still being finalized. We’ll share clearer guidance once production specifications are locked so expectations are set accurately.

We know that’s a lot to cover, and we appreciate your patience as things continue to take shape. Our goal is to share accurate, usable information rather than early concepts that might change."

 

[AZFox]

Here's the rest of the reply I received cobbled together from a couple of emails. I find the last statement somewhat encouraging.
[snip, snip]
[...] Our goal is to share accurate, usable information rather than early concepts that might change.

Those replies are helpful.
Encouraging, yes.
Thanks again for posting them.