A Game-Changer in the Pickup World
Modern pickup trucks have grown increasingly massive and expensive, but Telo Trucks is reimagining what’s possible. Based in San Carlos, California, Telo Trucks is stepping into what it calls the “white space” of small trucks. Their first offering, the Telo MT1, aims to combine full-size capability with the compact footprint of a Mini-Cooper.
Compact, Yet Mighty
The Telo MT1 measures just 152 x 73 x 66 inches, making it shorter, narrower, and more compact than larger competitors like the Rivian R1T or Tesla Cybertruck. Yet, it delivers remarkable performance, including:
- Bed Length: A 5-foot-long bed, matching the Toyota Tacoma’s short bed and even surpassing Rivian’s by six inches.
- Performance: A dual-motor all-wheel-drive system producing 500 horsepower, enabling a 0-60 mph sprint in just four seconds.
- Range: 350 miles per charge, outpacing the base Cybertruck.
- Seating: Room for five passengers, making it a practical option for both urban and adventure settings.
Built by Industry Veterans
Telo Trucks’ founding team brings unparalleled expertise to the table:
- Jason Marks (CEO): An ADAS and autonomy expert with patents in lidar technology.
- Forrest North (CTO): A Tesla veteran and founder of Mission Motors and Plugshare.
- Yves Behar (CCO): A creative force with experience at global brands like Samsung, Prada, and Herman Miller.
This powerhouse team is determined to meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), positioning the MT1 as a viable and accessible vehicle for everyday drivers.
Affordability and Vision
Starting at under $50,000, the Telo MT1 aims to democratize the EV truck market. With its competitive specs and focus on urban mobility, it challenges the larger, pricier offerings from established brands. Production is slated for 2026, giving consumers a compelling alternative in the small truck space.