Kenda to Supply Tires for Blank Slate Electric Pickup
Owners of the upcoming electric truck will benefit from specialized tires developed in Akron to improve range and performance.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Electric Vehicles
Live Poll
When buying a new vehicle, do you prioritize the availability of factory-supported customization and accessories?
Kenda will provide factory and accessory tires for the upcoming Blank Slate electric pickup truck starting in November 2026. The partnership focuses on custom tire development to address the unique weight and torque characteristics of the new electric vehicle.
Why it matters
Electric vehicles require specialized tires to manage higher curb weights and instant torque while maintaining driving range. This collaboration ensures that the truck’s tires are optimized for these performance demands to support vehicle efficiency.
Kenda will supply the Klever S/T EV tire for the vehicle as part of an official partnership with Slate Auto. Production is slated to commence in November 2026.
The players
Kenda
A global tire manufacturer that operates a technical centre in Akron, Ohio, and produces tires for passenger and electric vehicles.
Slate Auto
An automotive startup focused on the development of electric pickup trucks prioritizing affordability and personalization.
The details
Kenda engineers developed the Klever S/T EV to account for the specific mass and electric drivetrain torque associated with the Blank Slate pickup. The tire features reinforced construction and low rolling resistance technology to help meet the vehicle's range and performance targets. Development work took place at Kenda’s technical centre located in Akron, Ohio, in collaboration with Slate Auto throughout the vehicle design process.
Timeline
Production of The Blank Slate is scheduled to begin in November 2026.
The Home Front
This development follows an industry trend where manufacturers are increasingly pairing electric vehicle platforms with purpose-built tires. These specialized designs are necessary to counteract the increased weight loads common in current electric truck models.
If you are following the release of the Blank Slate, keep in mind that custom EV tires often require specific inflation pressures to maximize battery range. Check your owner's manual upon delivery to ensure you are maintaining the recommended tire settings for this vehicle.
The takeaway
Selecting the correct tire is critical for maintaining the efficiency and safety of electric pickups. When the vehicle launches, prospective buyers should review the manufacturer's guidance on tire rotation and maintenance to preserve the specialized tread life of the Klever S/T EV tires.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest innovations in Electric Vehicles.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Automotive World.
Live Poll
When buying a new vehicle, do you prioritize the availability of factory-supported customization and accessories?
