LOS ANGELES — TELO Trucks, a startup aiming to redefine electric mobility, introduced its first pre-production vehicle on Wednesday: a compact electric pickup truck designed to blend efficiency with urban practicality.
The TELO MT1, which made its debut while crossing the 4th Street Bridge over the Los Angeles River, represents a bold step into a new category of electric pickups. Unlike the towering trucks that have become fixtures on American roads, the MT1 prioritizes a smaller footprint while maintaining the utility of a traditional pickup. TELO’s founders believe the truck meets a growing demand for sustainable, space-efficient vehicles suitable for both consumer and commercial use.
“We designed the future of utility transportation by maximizing every inch to provide comfort without compromising performance or capability,” said Yves Béhar, TELO’s chief creative officer and a renowned industrial designer known for his work at fuseproject.
The MT1 integrates advanced battery technology spearheaded by co-founder and chief technology officer Forrest North, and safety innovations led by co-founder and chief executive Jason Marks. According to the company, these innovations are achievable only through the flexibility afforded by electric vehicle architecture.
The unveiling marks a significant milestone for the company, which raised $5.4 million last year in a strategic funding round led by venture capital firm Neo, with additional support from Spero Ventures. TELO says the funding has allowed the company to accelerate development and position itself in the increasingly competitive electric vehicle market.
A Compact Truck With a Spacious Interior
At the center of TELO’s design ethos is a commitment to sustainability and functionality. The MT1’s cabin, developed under Béhar’s guidance, is crafted with biodegradable cork surfaces, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional materials. The seating configuration provides rear passengers with the legroom typically found in larger crew cab trucks, a rare feature in the compact segment.
The vehicle also includes a distinctive storage solution called the “Monster Tunnel,” a hidden compartment beneath the truck bed designed to hold tools, adventure gear, or daily essentials. The feature underscores the company’s focus on maximizing utility without sacrificing passenger comfort.
“TELO brings more features, space, and practicality than any other vehicle on the road today,” Béhar said.
Poised for Growth
The startup reports that it has already received more than 5,000 pre-orders, representing over $250 million in potential revenue. The company has partnered with Aria Group, a leading prototype manufacturer, to advance the MT1 through its next stage of development.
The path from prototype to production, however, remains challenging. TELO plans to begin rigorous safety and durability testing in the coming months, with the goal of achieving regulatory approval by next winter.
“We’re inviting investors, partners, and customers to join us as we take the next step,” said Marks, the company’s CEO. “TELO is proving that – in a market stuffed with legacy brands – it is possible for a mini, mighty startup to deliver on time, on budget, and with real impact.”
Pre-orders for the TELO MT1 are available with a refundable deposit of $152, a nod to the truck’s 152-inch length – a compact measurement for a vehicle that aspires to make a sizable impression on the electric vehicle landscape.
The TELO MT1’s 60-inch truck bed extends into the backseat via an innovative midgate, accommodating everything from 4-by-8-foot sheets of plywood to 8-foot surfboards with the tailgate up.