What is the Slate Telematics Module and what can it be used for?
When you buy a Slate Truck, you only pay for the tech you want, and that includes connectivity between the vehicle and your phone. Is this a minimalist's dream?
The Slate Telematics Module is a $275 accessory for the Slate Truck, an electric vehicle designed with a minimalist approach, lacking many standard connected-car features. This module offers optional connectivity, allowing users to opt-in or out of certain equipment, a key aspect of Slate's design philosophy.
The Telematics Module includes a cellular path between a user's phone and the truck, enabling remote access features such as battery pre-conditioning. Battery pre-conditioning is particularly useful for EVs in cold weather, as it warms the battery before driving, improving performance and efficiency. The module also supports features like remote access (which, according to Slate, may include remote locking, unlocking, cabin climate control, and diagnostics), vehicle location tracking, and remote start functions.
However, the specifics of what exactly the remote access includes remain unclear. Slate has not detailed how the battery pre-conditioning feature operates or whether remote access extends to cabin heating and cooling. The module's hardware can be installed by the owner, though Slate rates it as an intermediate job requiring standard tools and an estimated installation time of 30 minutes to two hours.
Purchasing the Telematics Module comes with a one-year service subscription included in the $275 price. After the first year, connectivity costs and feature availability are not specified by Slate. Slate has stated that it has no plans to sell driver data, emphasizing privacy as a concern. The company has not disclosed what data the module will transmit or store, adding another layer of uncertainty for potential buyers.
Compared to mainstream connected vehicles, the Slate Truck represents a different approach to vehicle technology and customer experience. For instance, Ford's upcoming 2026 Maverick includes a 5G modem that unlocks free app features like remote lock and unlock, remote start, and vehicle information, while Rivian charges separately for advanced connected features through its mobile app.
The privacy implications of connected vehicle technology also remain a subject of discussion, with Slate affirming its commitment to not selling driver data.
Written by urgent.news from Engadget's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
