Telo’s Tiny Pickup Truck Just Upped the Ante Against Ford and Slate

Between Ford’s Fathom name reveal and Slate’s new starter pack customization options, the affordable electric pickup space is getting more charged by the day.

Eager to stay in the conversation, California-based startup Telo also recently gave an update on the progress of its challenger in the MT1. It’s a noteworthy one, too, since it makes for some big gains in compact utility.

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As such, even though Telo’s truck is shaping up to be a bit different from the pickups Ford and Slate have planned, I’d still argue it just upped the ante against both vehicles.

Telo

Telo’s MT1 tows big

That’s because, according to the company’s latest YouTube video, the MT1 can haul even more than initially promised. Telo is now saying that its dual-motor truck is now good for a whopping 8,000 pounds, and even the single-motor is good for a 6,600-pound rating.

Now, that’s for good reason. Co-founder Forest North originally sought a 6,000-plus-pound towing capacity as an owner of a travel trailer himself. However, many of today’s smart options (like the Pebble Flow) tip the scales a little heavier.

If that number sounds impressive, it’s because it is, especially when you consider the size. The Telo MT1 runs just 152 inches long, making it roughly as big as a Mini Cooper.

Telo

Still, even with that kind of compact footprint, its 4,400-pound curb weight and tow rating mean it’s set to outperform competing trucks like the Toyota Tacoma. Moreover, the MT1 even brings a full 60-inch bed with seating for up to five.

Sure, when it comes to things like long-distance towing, even North admits that diesels still hold the edge. However, because of traits like regen braking and the proximity of the hitch to the axle, it makes for a generally easier tow.

Telo

A defining edge

Now, Ford and Slate are both taking a decidedly different beat to Telo when it comes to towing. Rather than aiming for all-out capacity, each is instead focusing on affordability first.

For instance, according to previous reports, the Blue Oval isn’t as worried about towing. As Alan Clarke of Ford’s Advanced EV development told Inside EVs, “towing for small trucks is significantly less important.”

Telo

It’s a view that holds over at Slate, too. Rather than building the truck to replace larger alternatives, the outfit is keeping things modest and runabout-ready with just 2,000 pounds of towing (and that’s up from the original figure).

Be that as it may, the MT1 is sure to make the gaps in those capabilities abundantly clear. Both Ford and Slate are positioning their pickups as lifestyle vehicles that can be customized to fit the needs of adventurous types.

Without a way to haul a trailer behind, however, some such buyers may end up looking at Telo. After all, even if it does promise a premium over Ford’s and Slate’s trucks, the gap isn’t as big as you’d think. The 2WD MT1 is set to be priced from $41,520, and the Slate configurator can quickly get you there with enough options.

Telo

Availability and pricing

Telo’s MT1 is available now for reservation. According to the website, the 2WD MT1 will run from $41,520, while the AWD variant will start at $46,019.

Telo

Telo MT1

• Starts at $41,520

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