Telo Trucks Unveils MT1 Electric Pickup with Compact Design and Versatile Seating
A Revolutionary Compact Electric Pickup
California-based Telo Trucks has introduced its first prototype, the MT1 electric pickup, which boasts a reconfigurable cabin and bed that can accommodate up to eight passengers. Designed for urban utility and outdoor excursions, the truck merges compact dimensions with high performance.
Co-founded by designer Yves Béhar, Telo Trucks has crafted a 152-inch-long (3.86 meters) vehicle, making it as short as a Mini Cooper while delivering the functionality of a full-sized truck.
Innovative Design for Maximum Utility
The standard configuration of the MT1 allows for four to five passengers while maintaining a 60-inch (1.5-meter) truck bed. However, the reconfigurable design enables the truck to:
- Convert the bed into seating for up to eight people
- Expand the bed into the cabin using sliding doors under the rear window
- Maintain urban-friendly dimensions without sacrificing cargo space
Performance and Powertrain Options
The MT1 offers two powertrain configurations:
- Single-motor version for efficient urban driving
- Dual-motor setup with 500 horsepower and four-wheel drive
With a payload capacity of 1,700 lbs (771 kg), the MT1 is both compact and capable. The 106-kWh battery delivers an impressive 350-mile range, making it ideal for city driving and light-duty transport. Additionally, it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in under four seconds.
Reimagined Cabin and Storage Solutions
The truck’s electric architecture allows for a spacious cabin that extends into the hood, maximizing legroom for back-seat passengers. The absence of a traditional driveshaft enabled the creation of an under-bed storage compartment, known as the “Monster Tunnel”, accessible via:
- A rear-facing door behind the cab
- A removable bed panel, which can also serve as a footwell for the optional third row
Sustainability in Design
Telo Trucks prioritized eco-friendly materials for the interior, incorporating:
- Biodegradable cork for the dashboard, doors, and console
- Sustainable fabric for the upholstery
Aesthetic and Market Positioning
The pill-shaped highlights on the hood, door handles, and vents contribute to a sleek, modern look, distinguishing the MT1 from conventional aggressive truck designs. According to Béhar, the MT1 counters the oversized, intimidating aesthetics of many existing pickup trucks, offering a more inclusive and practical alternative.
Pre-Orders and Market Strategy
The prototype was developed in collaboration with Aria, a specialized manufacturer, but Telo Trucks plans to contract production rather than build its own factories.
With over 5,000 pre-orders already secured, customers can reserve an MT1 for just $152—its length in inches. The projected starting price for the vehicle is $34,000.
By combining compact urban design, high performance, and sustainable materials, the MT1 redefines the future of electric pickup trucks, offering a versatile, eco-conscious alternative to traditional models.
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