What are your thoughts on the Panel Van / Cargo Kit setup?

jhevil

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I've heard about the option for a "panel van" configuration in some of the fleet materials, but I don't see it in the maker yet. I wanted to hear your thoughts on whether any of you would be interested in this configuration. I presume that it would be similar to the standard SUV kit, but with no windows.
 

RedJoker

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The cargo version is the only version I'm interested in. If I can't get that, I don't think I'll order one. Having said that, I prefer it to have windows. I want the SUV top without all the interior stuff.
 

tubes

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Cargo with dark window tint would be my dream. It would be a lot like the minivan I use now as a work truck, just smaller and no side doors (which I would mourn, but I could live with). The driver can see the blind spots, the lurkers are Home Depot will be screened.

Yeah, there's not a lot of info on cargo yet. I'm hoping they throw a bone on the 24th.
 

1yeliab_sufur1

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I've heard about the option for a "panel van" configuration in some of the fleet materials, but I don't see it in the maker yet. I wanted to hear your thoughts on whether any of you would be interested in this configuration. I presume that it would be similar to the standard SUV kit, but with no windows.
https://www.theautopian.com/how-the-new-slate-pickup-could-make-an-affordable-ev-camper/
id like to see this personally i had looked up slate panel van and went to images and seen that as now i want it XD
 

sage

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I reached out to Slate asking about the cargo kit, specifically asking if the roll bar is required and if there is access to the cargo area from the front seat. Good news, roll bar isn’t required. Bad news, the midgate is not removed in this configuration like it is with the SUV kit, so it’s more of a truck topper instead of a cargo van style configuration.
Slate Auto Pickup Truck What are your thoughts on the Panel Van / Cargo Kit setup? IMG_1902
 

Kerserker

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The cargo version is the only version I'm interested in. If I can't get that, I don't think I'll order one. Having said that, I prefer it to have windows. I want the SUV top without all the interior stuff.
I am interested in this as well...A hard top without the seats… I hope it's all à la carte - or someone makes a soft top for the bed that seamlessly connects to the pickup cab
 

sodamo

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I reached out to Slate asking about the cargo kit, specifically asking if the roll bar is required and if there is access to the cargo area from the front seat. Good news, roll bar isn’t required. Bad news, the midgate is not removed in this configuration like it is with the SUV kit, so it’s more of a truck topper instead of a cargo van style configuration.
IMG_1902.webp
I take that as good news. Was hoping midgate might be optional as long as the rear window is either removed or openable.
 

tubes

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I'm good with keeping the midgate and window in place. I currently use my Honda Odyssey as a run around work van, and it is not the best idea if I have a collision or rollover accident. Nothing like getting all the crap back there thrown at my head.
 

RedJoker

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I'm good with keeping the midgate and window in place. I currently use my Honda Odyssey as a run around work van, and it is not the best idea if I have a collision or rollover accident. Nothing like getting all the crap back there thrown at my head.
While I agree, I think I might prefer a cage over the window when hauling the dogs. They need AC, heat, and tunes too! I'm sure the aftermarket will address that issue.
 

tubes

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While I agree, I think I might prefer a cage over the window when hauling the dogs. They need AC, heat, and tunes too! I'm sure the aftermarket will address that issue.
Oh yeah, totally agree with that idea. Cage will stop the buckets, bricks and drills from hitting me. I just have to keep my knives locked up. :)
 

kvermeer

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Good news, roll bar isn’t required. Bad news, the midgate is not removed in this configuration like it is with the SUV kit, so it’s more of a truck topper instead of a cargo van style configuration.
Every cargo van I've ever driven (Ford Transit 350, Transit Connect, Chevy Express) had a barrier between the driver area and the cargo area. I think it's required for safety in commercial use, you wouldn't want packages and tools to go through the windshield. The Transit 350 had a door in a wire mesh partition, the Connect had a steel partition, I don't remember what the Express had.

Honestly, the midgate isn't that big a hassle to work around, I wouldn't want it to be wide open.

I'd love to run a cargo van configuration in the winter Should be really affordable compared to the full-blown SUV kit given all the cost of airbags and rollover safety systems.

I wonder if you can do a "reduced cargo" fastback van configuration; I don't personally love/don't need the volume of the squared-off SUV kit but I'd like to not have a bed full of snow and slush in winter.

I like these options compared to a tonneau cover/truck topper.
 
 
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