tech
Here’s why Slate changed the battery in its cheap EV truck
While there was probably a moment when Slate’s leadership had to green-light the switch from one battery type to another, the momentum toward that decision had been building for years.
TL;DR
- Slate's EV pickup truck now uses lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery cells, lowering its starting price.
- The initial plan was for nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) cells, but LFP is about 40% cheaper.
- Changes in U.S. tax credit rules under the Inflation Reduction Act now allow EVs with LFP cells sourced from China (like those from Gotion) to qualify.
- LFP cells have lower energy density than NMC but modern variations have improved range, and they can be charged to 100% with less degradation.
- Slate is also utilizing cell-to-pack technology, where batteries are loaded directly into the pack, improving manufacturing efficiency and energy density.
- Other automakers like Ford, GM, Rivian, and Tesla also offer models using LFP cells.