Measuring just 152 inches long, the Telo MT1 electric truck has achieved a towing capacity of up to 8,000 pounds—more than the Ford F-150 Lightning and Toyota Tacoma—setting a new benchmark for compact electric pickups.
- Tows nearly double its own weight at 8,000 lbs
- Compact size with five- to eight-person seating options
- Dual-motor AWD with up to 350-mile range (without trailer)
What happened
The Telo MT1 electric truck, a compact pickup measuring just 152 inches in length, has increased its towing capacity to 8,000 pounds, a hefty figure that surpasses well-known pickups like the Ford F-150 Lightning and Toyota Tacoma. This capability is nearly double the truck's own weight of 4,400 pounds. The truck features a standard full-size bed and flexible seating arrangements, including an optional third row in the bed area, allowing up to eight passengers.
Telo’s co-founder and CTO Forest North explained that the increase in towing capacity was motivated by his personal needs for hauling a travel trailer. Achieving this required addressing technical challenges, especially related to braking on long downhill slopes and motor cooling on steep inclines. To mitigate these, the MT1 uses extensive regenerative braking and a powerful dual-motor all-wheel-drive system with 500 horsepower.
Why it feels good
The MT1’s ability to tow a heavy load despite its compact size and lightweight design offers a promising glimpse of what electric trucks can achieve. Its combination of maneuverability, power, and versatility presents a compelling option for drivers seeking an electric truck that doesn’t compromise on utility. The regenerative braking system enhances safety and efficiency, preventing brake overheating on long descents.
The instant torque from its electric powertrain delivers strong hill-climbing ability, enabling confident towing even on steep grades. Plus, the seating flexibility and well-sized cargo bed expand the truck's usability beyond typical compact pickups. This breakthrough challenges the conventional notion that bigger trucks are always better for towing, demonstrating innovation in electric vehicle engineering.
What to enjoy or watch next
Telo is aiming to begin production by the end of the year after recently securing around $20 million in funding, including investment from Tesla co-founder Marc Tarpenning. While the MT1 is priced higher than some other affordable electric trucks, it targets a different market focused on capability and premium features rather than budget entry-level buyers.
As the launch approaches, it will be exciting to see how the MT1 performs in real-world tests and how it influences the expanding electric truck segment. Its impressive towing figures and practical design might inspire other manufacturers to push the boundaries of compact EV pickups. Watching the evolution of electric truck technology promises plenty of innovation and greater choices for consumers.