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Photo = SK on |
[Alpha Biz= Kim Jisun] SK On announced on April 25 that it has been selected as the exclusive battery supplier for Slate, a U.S.-based electric vehicle (EV) startup. Under the agreement, SK On will supply approximately 20 GWh of batteries over six years from 2025 to 2031 — enough to power about 300,000 midsize electric vehicles. The companies have agreed to explore expanding supply volumes as Slate’s production scales up.
Founded in 2022 in Michigan, Slate plans to launch an affordable and uniquely designed two-door electric pickup truck next year, targeting a price point below $30,000. The startup aims to simplify manufacturing and design processes to lower the retail price and appeal to a broad customer base.
Slate's new vehicle will be equipped with SK On’s high-nickel NCM (nickel, cobalt, manganese) batteries, recognized for their outstanding energy density, safety, and performance — qualities that are particularly valued in the U.S. market where extended driving range is critical.
The batteries will be produced at SK On’s manufacturing facilities in the United States. Since its initial investment in the U.S. in 2019, SK On has established a stable production system, beginning mass production in 2022 and building strong trust with its customers. The company is set to start commercial operations at three new U.S. plants this year and next. By the end of 2026, U.S. facilities are expected to account for about 50% of SK On’s global production capacity.
This partnership also marks SK On’s expansion into the mid-to-lower price vehicle segment, having previously focused primarily on supplying batteries for premium EV models. By broadening its reach, SK On aims to further contribute to the widespread adoption of electric vehicles by offering high-performance batteries to a larger consumer base.
Lee Seok-hee, CEO of SK On, commented, "This collaboration once again confirms trust in SK On’s advanced technology and mass production capabilities in the United States. The U.S. remains a core strategic market for us, and we are committed to delivering high-quality, locally produced batteries to continue expanding our customer portfolio."
Alphabiz Reporter Kim Jisun(stockmk2020@alphabiz.co.kr)
