(DETROIT) - Slate Auto could soon face competition in the market for low-cost electric pickup trucks.
Several automotive publications, including Car and Driver, report that Ford has launched a website tracking development of a compact electric pickup expected to carry a price tag of about $30,000 when it reaches the market in 2027.
Few details about the Ford vehicle have been released, but reports indicate it will be built on the company's new Universal EV platform, which is designed to reduce manufacturing costs and streamline production.
The announcement comes as Slate Auto prepares to launch sales of its own electric pickup truck, which is expected to be built in Warsaw. Reports indicate Slate's truck could start at $24,950 based on information found in the company's website metadata.
Slate has been accepting $50 reservation deposits and plans to begin pre-orders on June 24. The company is expected to announce the truck's official starting price that same day.
Production will take place at the former R.R. Donnelley printing plant on West Old Road 30 west of downtown Warsaw. Slate plans to employ about 2,000 workers once the facility reaches full production.
The project is part of Slate's effort to bring manufacturing back to the United States and return a long-vacant industrial site to active use.