Slate Auto changes CEO months ahead of affordable EV launch

In a significant leadership change, Slate Auto, the electric vehicle startup receiving backing from Jeff Bezos, has appointed Peter Faricy as its new CEO just months before the anticipated launch of its budget-friendly electric truck. Faricy, who previously served as a vice president at Amazon Marketplace, officially took over the role on Monday, confirmed Slate spokesperson Jeff Jablansky. Before joining Slate, Faricy contributed his expertise as an advisor at McKinsey and Bessemer Venture Partners. His transition from Bessemer to Slate was first reported by Newsweek. Christine Barman, the company’s inaugural CEO and a veteran of Chrysler, has now shifted to the position of President of Vehicles. Barman was a pivotal figure during the company's formative years, having been the first hire when Slate was still a secretive project known as re:Car. Barman, one of the few female CEOs in the U.S. automotive industry, had become the public face of Slate Auto since its emergence from stealth mode in April 2025. She featured prominently in promotional content, including a recent video where she hinted at the upcoming announcement of the truck's price in June. In her new capacity, she will focus on ensuring the timely and budget-conscious delivery of the vehicle. Slate Auto has successfully raised around $700 million from Bezos and other prominent investors. Initially, the company aimed for a starting price of under $20,000 for its electric truck, but due to changes in federal EV tax credits, it is now targeting a price in the mid-$20,000 range. Prospective buyers will also have the option to customize their vehicles, such as converting them into SUVs for an additional cost. Faricy steps into his role at a crucial time, as Slate prepares to convert approximately 160,000 refundable preorders into actual vehicle orders. Jablansky emphasized the importance of Faricy’s experience in building Amazon Marketplace for the company’s future. While a CEO change this early in a company’s journey may raise eyebrows, it aligns with Slate's strategy of leveraging talent from Amazon, given the significant ties between the two entities, including co-founders and board members associated with Amazon.