Slate is taking a different lane when it comes to servicing its vehicles—part of a two-pronged strategy aimed at making ownership more convenient and accessible.
The details: As part of its customer service expansion program, the American EV startup has partnered with RepairPal’s certified network of independent auto shops to launch a service and installation program for Slate owners, per The EV Report.
The partnership gives owners access to a network of locations for accessory installations and general maintenance, eliminating the need for a traditional dealership footprint.
RepairPal currently has more than 200 locations certified for high-voltage EV repairs, with a broader network trained in both accessory installation and general maintenance.
Slate owners who prefer DIY accessory installations—a key selling point for the EV—will retain that option, with certified shops available to provide support if needed.
Slate’s customer service expansion also includes adopting the North American Charging Standard (NACS), giving its customers direct access to Tesla’s Supercharger network.
Why it matters: By partnering with RepairPal, Slate expands its service reach quickly and cost-effectively, enhancing customer trust through convenience and certified repair options. Adopting NACS further strengthens its ownership ecosystem, offering easier charging access and aligning Slate with broader EV industry trends led by Tesla.
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Between the lines: Slate’s new programs directly target two of the biggest pain points in EV ownership—service access and convenience—which could help attract new buyers to the brand.
While basic maintenance needs are typically lower for EVs, 85% of all owners still visited a dealer for service within their first year of ownership, according to an April CDK report.
The share of owners who could secure a same-day appointment dropped from 40% in 2024 to 28% in 2025, while slightly more (29%) had to wait a full day.
Those waiting three or more days also increased—from 9% in 2024 to 14% in 2025, per CDK.
What they’re saying: “When we asked if servicing an EV took longer than a gas vehicle, nearly a third (31%) agreed, with far more non-Tesla owners waiting more than Tesla owners—34% compared to 23%, respectively,” as CDK noted in its 2025 EV Ownership study.
Bottom line: By teaming with RepairPal and adopting Tesla’s NACS charging system, Slate is removing two major friction points—service availability and charging access—while carving out a reputation as a convenience-first EV brand. The strategy positions Slate as a nimble, customer-focused option in the EV market, appealing to buyers frustrated by long service waits and limited repair options.
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