TELO Trucks: Rethinking the Electric Pickup

While most American pickups are growing in size, TELO Trucks is flipping the script. Based in San Carlos, California, this startup is designing right-sized electric pickups that combine urban-friendly dimensions with real truck capability. Founded in 2022, TELO’s MT1 packs big performance into a Mini Cooper-sized footprint, making it a unique entry in the EV market.

Meet the TELO MT1: Small, But Mighty

At just 152 inches long, the MT1 is nearly two feet shorter than a Toyota Tacoma, yet it manages to fit a 60-inch truck bed—the same as the Tacoma. Thanks to its configurable midgate, cargo space extends to 8 feet, allowing it to haul plywood, surfboards, or even a dirt bike.

• Dimensions: 152” L × 73” W × 66” H
• Seating: 5 passengers
• Bed Length: 5 feet (8 feet with midgate open)
• Ground Clearance: 10 inches

Despite its compact size, the MT1 doesn’t skimp on power. It’s available in two configurations:

• Single-motor RWD: 300 hp, 260-mile range
• Dual-motor AWD: 500 hp, 350-mile range

Performance & Capability

The MT1’s performance is impressive for a subcompact truck.

• Payload: 1,700 lbs
• Towing Capacity: 6,600 lbs
• Charging: 250 kW fast charging (20-80% in ~20 minutes)
• Battery: 106 kWh long-range option

TELO ensures the MT1 remains practical, with off-the-shelf components for easy servicing and optional solar panels that add 12-15 miles of range per day.

Designed for Safety & Efficiency

TELO places a high priority on safety and efficiency. The 14-inch crumple zone meets U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), an impressive feat for a cab-over truck design. The low-profile battery pack (just 4 inches thick) keeps the center of gravity low, improving handling and stability.

• Crumple Zone: 14 inches, designed for crash safety
• Battery Pack: Slim 4-inch design for optimized space
• Aerodynamics: Reduced drag for improved efficiency

Who is the TELO MT1 For?

TELO is targeting two main audiences:

1. City-based adventure seekers – Those who want a truck that’s easy to park yet still capable of weekend road trips.
2. Fleet operators & urban businesses – Plumbers, contractors, and delivery services looking for a compact work truck that’s easy to maneuver in tight spaces.

Many fleet managers miss the days of small trucks like the Ford Ranger and Chevy S-10, and TELO’s fleet sales program (announced in 2025) caters directly to them.

How Does the MT1 Compare to Other Electric Trucks?

Ford F-150 Lightning vs. TELO MT1

• Size: TELO is 48 inches shorter than the Lightning
• Towing: TELO’s 6,600-lb capacity is only 1,400 lbs less than the Lightning’s
• Price: TELO starts at $41,520, cheaper than most full-size EV trucks

Rivian R1T vs. TELO MT1

• Size: TELO is 36 inches shorter
• Range: 350 miles (MT1 long-range) vs. 314 miles (R1T Max Pack)
• Maneuverability: TELO’s smaller footprint makes it easier to park and navigate in cities

Pricing & Availability

TELO is positioning the MT1 as an affordable alternative to oversized electric trucks.

• Base Model Price: $41,520 (before incentives)
• Long-Range AWD Model: ~$50,000
• Eligible for federal & local EV tax credits

The first 500 units will be hand-built in 2025 at TELO’s San Carlos microfactory, with mass production scaling to 10,000 units in 2026.

Funding & Production Plans

Since launching, TELO has raised $6.8 million in funding, including:

• $5.4 million Series A (March 2024) – Led by Neo and Spero Ventures
• $1.78 million pre-seed (June 2023)
• 5,000+ pre-orders, totaling $250 million in commitments

TELO expects to finalize safety and durability testing by late 2025, with homologation in early 2026.

Challenges & the Road Ahead

Launching an EV startup is no easy feat, especially in a highly competitive market.

• Scaling production: TELO is avoiding the overpromising pitfalls of companies like Rivian, focusing on low-volume manufacturing first.
• Cold-weather performance: The low ground clearance and solar panel efficiency in winter conditions may need further testing.
• Market reception: Can Americans embrace a smaller electric pickup in a segment traditionally dominated by full-size trucks?

Final Thoughts: Can TELO Succeed?

By blending Japanese kei-truck inspiration with American truck practicality, TELO is carving out a new niche. The MT1’s mix of compact size, long range, and real truck capability makes it a strong contender for urban drivers, businesses, and adventure seekers alike.

With funding secured, a functional prototype, and growing pre-orders, TELO’s MT1 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting electric pickups yet—a true alternative to the oversized, resource-hungry trucks that dominate today’s market.