Kenda to Supply Tires for Blank Slate Electric Truck
The Akron-based tire maker is developing custom equipment for Slate Auto's upcoming electric pickup truck.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Electric Vehicles
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Kenda will provide factory and accessory tires for the forthcoming Blank Slate electric pickup truck. Engineers based in Akron developed the specialized Klever S/T EV tires to meet the vehicle's unique weight, torque, and range requirements.
Why it matters
The partnership supports Slate Auto's focus on affordability and personalization by utilizing tires designed specifically for the platform's electric drivetrain. It also leverages local engineering expertise from the Kenda technical center in Akron to optimize the vehicle's performance.
The Klever S/T EV tire features reinforced construction to manage increased electric drivetrain torque and vehicle mass while maintaining low rolling resistance. Engineers developed these specifications specifically to optimize the range of the Blank Slate pickup.
The players
Kenda
Kenda is a tire manufacturing company that maintains a technical center in Akron, Ohio.
Slate Auto
Slate Auto is an automotive company focused on the production of electric pickup trucks.
The details
Kenda engineers worked directly with Slate Auto throughout the development process to create a purpose-built solution for the pickup. The tires prioritize ride quality and efficiency to match the electric vehicle's performance benchmarks.
Timeline
Production of The Blank Slate is scheduled to begin in November 2026.
Roadmap
This partnership highlights the automotive industry's shift toward developing specialized components that address the unique structural and performance demands of electric vehicles. By engineering custom tires for the Blank Slate, Kenda aligns its manufacturing trajectory with the growing market for purpose-built electric truck hardware.
Buyers of the upcoming Blank Slate pickup can expect factory-equipped tires that are specifically engineered to improve ride quality and battery range. This integration ensures that the vehicle meets performance targets for mass and torque without requiring aftermarket modifications.
The takeaway
The collaboration demonstrates how custom-engineered tires can play a critical role in maximizing the efficiency and performance of new electric truck models. Prospective EV owners should prioritize vehicles with purpose-built tires that account for the unique weight and torque profiles of electric drivetrains.
What happens next
Production of The Blank Slate electric pickup is expected to begin in November 2026.
Further reading
For more information on the evolving electric vehicle market, visit the Electric Vehicles section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Automotive World.
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When buying a new vehicle, do you prioritize the availability of factory-supported customization and accessories?
