Slate Truck vs. 2025 Ford Maverick: Which small truck fits your needs?

In a market increasingly filled with compact pickups, the Slate Truck and the 2025 Ford Maverick stand out for different reasons. One is a radically simplified electric vehicle built around customization and affordability. The other is a proven, full-featured unibody pickup offered with multiple trims and powertrain options. Here’s how they compare.

Powertrains and performance

The Slate Truck is all-electric. It comes with a standard 52.7-kWh battery and a single rear-mounted 150 kW motor, delivering 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. An accessory 84.3-kWh pack boosts range to an estimated 240 miles. Acceleration is modest with a 0-60 mph time of 8.0 seconds, and top speed is limited to 90 mph.

The 2025 Ford Maverick offers two gasoline-based options: a 2.5-liter hybrid that produces 191 combined horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine delivering 238 hp and 275 lb-ft. Front-wheel drive is standard on hybrid models, while all-wheel drive is available across the lineup.

Towing and payload

The Maverick leads in utility. With the optional 4K Tow Package, it tows up to 4,000 pounds. Maximum payload capacity reaches 1,500 lbs in most configurations.

The Slate Truck prioritizes simplicity, with a maximum towing capacity of 1,000 lbs and a payload rating of 1,433 lbs — competitive for light-duty use, but clearly not aimed at heavy trailering.

Size and dimensions

Slate’s minimal footprint is a strength in urban environments. It measures just 174.6 inches in length with a 108.9-inch wheelbase. Its compact size aids maneuverability, though it’s strictly a two-seater unless upgraded with the DIY SUV conversion kit.

The Maverick, by contrast, is a full four-door pickup with seating for five. At 199.8 inches long and built on a 121.1-inch wheelbase, it offers significantly more cabin and passenger volume.

Cargo and bed utility

Slate’s cargo setup includes a 7.0-cubic-foot front trunk, a 37.0-cubic-foot bed, and optional accessories like a flat-pack SUV kit. Its bed measures 60 inches long (81.6 with tailgate down), with a narrow 42.9-inch width between wheel wells.

The Maverick’s bed is shorter at 54.4 inches but features greater width (42.6 inches between wheel wells and 53.3 inches exposed). Open cargo volume is rated at 33.3 cubic feet.

Interior and tech

Slate’s interior philosophy is minimalist: crank windows, physical HVAC knobs, and bring-your-own-tech integration via universal phone mounts and USB ports. There’s no built-in infotainment screen unless you add one yourself.

The Maverick offers modern features including an available 13.2-inch touchscreen, SYNC 4, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Ford Co-Pilot360 safety tech. A variety of trim levels caters to different levels of equipment and comfort.

Pricing and value

Slate aims to undercut the market. Its expected price is under $20,000 after federal incentives, and it ships in a single configuration with extensive optional accessories for personalization.

The Maverick is more expensive, especially in upper trims or with the EcoBoost engine and AWD. However, it offers more standard features, seating capacity, and established dealer support.

Final thoughts

The Slate Truck is a compelling choice if you value simplicity, affordability, and EV ownership, especially if you like the idea of personalizing your vehicle over time. The 2025 Ford Maverick, on the other hand, is the more traditional choice, offering broader capability, more passenger space, and greater towing utility.

Your ideal truck depends on your needs: a minimalist electric utility truck built for the future, or a versatile small pickup grounded in practicality and choice.