Telo MT1: Compact Electric Pickup With 3,628 kg Tow

Small but mighty: Telo MT1 raises the towing bar

Telo has shocked the pickup market by announcing the MT1, an ultra-compact electric pickup truck capable of towing up to 3,628 kg. Despite measuring just 3,860 mm in length and weighing 1,995 kg, the MT1 can haul nearly twice its own mass — a rare feat for a vehicle in this size class.

How it stacks up against mainstream pickups

That towing figure places the MT1 ahead of several established rivals: it tops the standard Ford F-150 Lightning (3,492 kg), outpaces the rear-wheel-drive Tesla Cybertruck (3,402 kg) and leaves the Toyota Tacoma (2,948 kg) behind. For shoppers watching towing capacity and efficiency, the MT1 delivers an intriguing alternative to larger, heavier pickups.

Key specifications

• Maximum towing capacity: 3,628 kg
• Length: 3,860 mm; curb weight: 1,995 kg
• Load bed length: 2,438 mm
• Seating: 5 standard, optional third row for up to 8 passengers
• Powertrain: dual-motor all-wheel drive — 500 hp, 750 Nm torque
• Battery options: 77 kWh (≈418 km range) or 106 kWh (≈563 km range)
• Towing range (with caravan): ≈321 km

Under the skin, the MT1 uses a two-motor AWD setup that produces around 500 horsepower and 750 Nm of torque, giving it the grunt needed for serious towing despite the compact footprint. Telo offers two battery packs: a 77 kWh pack with an estimated 418 km range, and a larger 106 kWh pack rated at roughly 563 km. Expect real-world range to drop significantly when towing — Telo cites about 321 km with a travel trailer attached.

Engineering for real-world towing

Engineering focused on real towing scenarios. Telo co-founder and CTO Forrest North explained how product requirements evolved: "The initial towing target was 2,721 kg, but I own a travel trailer and wanted to be certain I could tow mine." To handle long downhill stretches and demanding climbs, the MT1 uses robust regenerative braking strategies and thermal management so drivers can descend grades using regen without constantly touching the brake pedal.

That mix of thermal control, regen tuning and torque delivery aims to reduce brake fade on long descents and preserve battery and motor performance on steep climbs — two common stress points for electric tow vehicles.

Market positioning and availability

Telo recently closed a $20 million funding round and is working through regulatory approvals to start production. The MT1 starts at $41,520 for the base model, positioning it as an affordable, capability-oriented option in the growing compact electric pickup segment.

Whether the MT1 becomes a mainstream choice will depend on certification, dealer support and real-world owner experiences. For buyers who need towing capacity but prefer a smaller, more maneuverable vehicle, the Telo MT1 is a compelling new option that challenges the notion that only large pickups can be serious tow vehicles.