Kenda Rubber Industrial to Supply KLEVER S/T EV Tires for Slate Auto's Blank Slate Pickup

Kenda Rubber Industrial has been selected by Slate Auto as the official original equipment tire supplier for The Blank Slate, the company's new electric pickup, PR Newswire reported. Kenda will provide its KLEVER S/T EV tire, which will launch as original equipment when the vehicle enters production in November 2026.

Kenda's KLEVER S/T EV Tire for the Blank Slate

Kenda, a global tire and wheel manufacturer, developed the KLEVER S/T EV specifically for the Slate truck's weight, torque characteristics, efficiency targets, ride and handling requirements, and anticipated driving conditions. The tire uses a low rolling resistance design to help maximize efficiency and driving range, while reinforced construction supports durability, handling performance and tread life. Development was supported by Kenda's American Technical Center in Akron, Ohio.

Kenda was also selected as the supplier for Slate's accessory tire offerings, which let customers personalize their vehicles while maintaining the platform's performance, safety and quality standards. "Our collaboration with Slate Auto represents an exciting opportunity to support a company that is reimagining electric mobility through accessibility, personalization and practicality," said Jimmy Yang, Global President, CEO and Chairman of Kenda Industrial.

Slate Auto, founded in 2022, is building vehicles it describes as affordable and personalizable, assembled at a factory in Warsaw, Ind. The company has drawn attention for its approach to electric vehicle ownership centered on affordability, simplicity and personalization. According to PR Newswire, Slate and Smarties unveiled six pastel-color Starter Packs for Slate trucks on October 27, 2026, each including decals and a key fob endcap, with the Slate Truck priced at $24,950 and preorders at $300.

Kenda's Recent US Market Moves

According to akta.pro company records, Kenda issued a safety recall of 542 KR17 tires in 2026, with customer service directing consumers to authorized dealers for free replacement. The same records show Kenda partnered with Osburn Offroad as part of a 2026 sponsorship program, which manages order fulfillment for the program and gives racers rider discounts on Kenda tires through its account system. Kenda also introduced a new tier structure within the Kenda Traction Associate Dealer program for 2026, deepening dealer enablement across the US replacement market.

When the Blank Slate Enters Production

Kenda said the KLEVER S/T EV tire's availability will be aligned to Slate Auto's production schedule, with the vehicle entering production in November 2026. PR Newswire reported that first deliveries of the Slate Truck are expected in the fourth quarter of 2026.