• ProdigalFrog@slrpnk.netOP
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    3 days ago

    If you’re not familiar with it, the Slate is modular and can be converted from an SUV with rear seats to an open-bed truck. In the truck configuration, it’s similar in size to the older style mini-trucks that were common in the 80’s and 90’s.

    • Lemmyoutofhere@lemmy.ca
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      3 days ago

      I am very familiar with what it is, and what it isn’t. No real frame, it’s not a real truck. It’s unibody construction like any other sport cute SUV.

      • ProdigalFrog@slrpnk.netOP
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        3 days ago

        Ah, well to each their own as to what makes something fit into a classification.

        The slate certainly won’t be able to perform the same tasks that a large truck can, but there’s already many options for large trucks, and currently no options for small trucks. A 1980’s Toyota Hilux with only 100hp and 130lb-ft wouldn’t have been able to perform the same tasks as a 1980’s Ford F-350, but many people don’t perform the tasks a larger truck is capable of. For them, the cost savings that come with a smaller lighter, and more simple truck with enough capabilities for their needs may be a far more appealing option.

        As for it being a unibody, I don’t think that will be much of a detriment for the types of tasks people have in mind for it, and supposedly it’s designed to be stronger than a traditional unibody, though we’ll have to see if that claim is accurate.

        • Lemmyoutofhere@lemmy.ca
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          3 days ago

          The trucks that everyone wants this to duplicate; Ranger, Hilux, S10, Durango etc, were real trucks, with full frames, and could do real truck things. The slate is a poseur.

          • ProdigalFrog@slrpnk.netOP
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            3 days ago

            What sort of truck things could an old 4 cylinder hilux do that a slate couldn’t? (besides tow a light load long distances, which EV’s aren’t very good at due to how drastically reduces the range from added drag, but that’s the compromise made for buyers who are concerned about climate change).

            Could always take a page from the aussies and call 'em a Ute. Everybody loves a good ute. :)

            • Darkaga@lemmy.world
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              3 days ago

              The guy doesn’t know what he’s talking about, the Slate doesn’t even have a FWD option, RWD only.