Canada’s Exro Technologies is making waves in the electric vehicle (EV) market with its innovative technology, and it’s teaming up with a promising new player, Slate Auto. This collaboration could redefine how we think about EV charging and affordability, especially with Slate’s ambitious goal of offering electric SUVs and trucks starting at just $25,000.
What Makes Exro’s Technology a Game-Changer?
Exro has developed a unique Coil Driver inverter that eliminates the need for a traditional on-board charger. This is significant because it simplifies the charging process, allowing for faster AC charging at home. Imagine plugging in your EV and having it charge at an impressive rate of 19 kW, with potential upgrades to 80 kW in the future. This not only makes home charging more convenient but also eases the burden on the existing global charging infrastructure, which often struggles with the high costs of building DC charging stations.
By removing the need for a bulky converter that changes AC power from your home into DC for charging, Exro’s technology helps reduce the weight and cost of the vehicle. For a startup like Slate, which is targeting a price point that’s significantly lower than many competitors, this is a crucial advantage.
How Does This Technology Improve Performance?
Exro’s coil-switching system is another standout feature. This system allows for multiple virtual power and torque profiles within a single motor. What does this mean for drivers? More bottom-end torque for quick acceleration and top-end power for highway speeds, all while enhancing overall efficiency. This kind of performance tuning is typically reserved for high-end vehicles, but Slate aims to make it accessible to the average consumer.
Slate Auto’s Vision for Affordable EVs
Slate Auto, based in Michigan and reportedly backed by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, is on a mission to democratize electric vehicle ownership. Their strategy includes a family of electric vehicles that are not only affordable but also practical for everyday use. With designs that include a small gray pickup and two distinct two-door SUVs, Slate is gearing up for a market launch that could disrupt the status quo.
The company plans to unveil more details about its vehicles on April 24, including how it will navigate potential challenges like tariffs on auto goods from Canada. This is particularly relevant given that Exro’s manufacturing facilities are primarily located in Canada, which could complicate the supply chain.
What’s Next for Slate and Exro?
As the EV market continues to evolve, Slate Auto’s approach could set a new standard for affordability and technology integration. With Exro’s innovative charging solutions and performance enhancements, Slate is positioning itself to attract a wide range of consumers who may have previously considered EVs out of reach.
The big takeaway? Affordable electric vehicles aren’t just a dream—they’re on the horizon. By focusing on smarter technology and cost-effective solutions, companies like Slate and Exro are paving the way for a future where electric vehicles are accessible to everyone. Keep an eye on this space; the next few years could bring some exciting changes to the automotive landscape.