Telo’s tiny electric truck reaches pre-production

• The Telo MT1 electric pickup truck is now in pre-production
• Pre-production prototypes can be used for final testing and certification
• Pricing starts at $41,520 and reservations are already being accepted

U.S. EV startup Telo reached a serious milestone on March 6 with the disclosing of its first accomplished pre-production prototype for its MT1 electric pickup truck.

Pre-production vehicles are typically used for final testing, in addition to for certification and registration purposes. In addition they give engineers the chance to iron out any production snags before the primary customer units are built.

Within the case of the Telo MT1, the pre-production prototype encompasses a fully finished interior. The dash follows the ever present floating display panel trend, incorporating digital screens for each the instrument cluster and infotainment system. Other parts of the cabin use sustainable materials, including cork in some areas.

In line with the corporate, the MT1 also offers ample space, with rear-seat legroom comparable to that of a full-size crew cab pickup. Moreover, it encompasses a tunnel storage system under the bed, much like what Rivian offers.

The MT1 was first revealed as an idea two years ago, and late last 12 months, the corporate began accepting reservations while confirming a starting price of $41,520. For that starting price, buyers will get a 152-inch-long electric truck with a footprint much like a Mini Cooper but with enough room for five adults and a 60-inch bed—larger than the one within the Rivian R1T.

Despite its compact size, the MT1 is designed to handle real truck work. Telo claims a maximum payload capability of 1,600 kilos and a tow rating of 6,600 kilos. Due to a midgate, the MT1 can even accommodate 4-by-8-foot sheets of plywood, a 9-foot surfboard, and other long items behind the front seats.

The bottom model comes with a single-motor, rear-wheel-drive powertrain rated at 300 hp, paired with a Standard battery offering an estimated 260 miles of range. Buyers can go for a Long Range battery—providing greater than 350 miles of estimated range—for an extra $3,980. A dual-motor, all-wheel-drive powertrain delivering 500 hp can be available for an additional $4,500.

Production of the pre-production MT1 was handled by contract manufacturer Aria Group. Telo reports that it currently has greater than 5,000 reservations, but the corporate has not yet disclosed where full-scale production will happen. The corporate has time to finalize its manufacturing plans, as the subsequent step for the MT1 is an in depth testing program. Following testing, the vehicle will undergo certification, which Telo expects to finish by next winter.