Detroit EV startup begins preorders for $24,950 base-model pickup truck

A Detroit-based electric vehicle startup has begun accepting preorders for a base-model pickup truck priced at $24,950. The two-seat vehicle offers an estimated 205 miles of range and measures 14.5 feet in length. The truck includes hand-crank windows, a smartphone mount, standard cruise control, and no stereo, speakers, or navigation system.

Optional 3D-printed accessories, a stereo, and a conversion kit that adds three seats and turns the vehicle into an SUV are available at extra cost.

Fewer than 5% of new vehicles sold in the U.S. last year were priced at $25,000 or less, down from nearly 21% in 2019. The average new-vehicle transaction price rose by about $11,000 during the same period to $48,402. The startup's model is one of eight U.S. vehicles available under $25,000. Industry data indicate more than 200 electric and hybrid models priced in that range are sold in China.

An Edmunds analysis found that U.S. buyers have shifted toward larger vehicles with additional features. An Edmunds executive director said the stripped-down configuration may not appeal to American consumers accustomed to factory-installed amenities. The company also offers vinyl wraps instead of paint to reduce production costs. Preorders opened last week.