If You're Really Enthusiastic About Bare Bones Single-Cab Trucks, Check This Out | Carscoops

      The 1999 Ford Ranger offers a reliable, straightforward truck experience without any startup uncertainty.

      On May 15, an auction will feature a well-maintained 1999 Ford Ranger pickup truck. This particular model is a single-cab XLT with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 117 horsepower. Even at 26 years old, it has less than 52,000 miles on the odometer.

      If we had a dollar for every startup claiming to create the ultimate affordable EV, only to vanish or fail to fulfill its promises, we could likely fund our own venture. The latest example is Slate with its “Truck.”

      Its main selling point is its back-to-basics single-cab design and an attractive price starting below $28,000, or approximately $20,000 with EV incentives that President Trump has yet to eliminate despite opposing them.

      Even if Slate’s truck comes to market as advertised, it’s clear that its affordability stems not from an innovative approach, but from being astonishingly basic. It lacks not only the standard features we have come to expect but also essentials like electric windows, an audio system, speakers, and an infotainment screen. While you can pay extra for these additions, doesn’t that undermine the whole notion of an “affordable EV”?

      Alternatively, you can simply opt for a Ranger.

      For those in search of a budget-friendly single-cab truck with minimal comforts, consider a used Ford Ranger. This isn't the latest model, which is far from basic and certainly not an EV from a startup, but rather a classic third-generation 1999 Ranger XLT, set to be auctioned by Mecum on May 15.

      Yes, this truck is 26 years old, features a 2.5-liter combustion engine, and requires manual window cranking; however, it does offer various features. While not luxurious, it's certainly more than a basic economy model. It comes equipped with an automatic transmission, power steering and brakes, air conditioning, alloy wheels, a soft bed cover, and chrome grille and bumpers.

      But that’s not all! This truck includes a radio (with speakers), a center console armrest, cupholders, and—hold on to your hats, EV startup supporters—a glovebox! These are basic comforts you won’t find in the Slate EV unless you pay extra for the “luxury” package.

      Furthermore, it boasts a much more practical range than the Truck's modest 150 miles, which you can extend to 240 miles for an additional cost. The Ranger also surpasses the Truck’s payload and towing capacities of 1,400 lbs (635 kg) and 1,000 lbs (453 kg), respectively. It’s manufactured by a well-established automaker, has a track record of high sales for easy parts availability, and, despite its age, only has 51,645 miles on the odometer.

      So if you're looking for an affordable, straightforward single-cab truck, you have options. They might not be cloaked in the flashy, buzzword-laden startup hype that promises to revolutionize everything, but if you want a dependable, solid truck without the fuss, take a look at the listing here.