Tesla co-founder’s compact EV ute draws 12000 pre-orders

Tesla co-founder Marc Tarpenning has generated significant interest in his latest venture, with the compact TELO MT1 electric pickup attracting more than 12000 pre-orders since its announcement.

Tarpenning, who left Tesla in 2008, has positioned the MT1 as the “anti-Cybertruck” – a compact urban pickup that prioritises space efficiency over size. The name TELO derives from the Greek word “telos,” meaning purpose or goal.

The vehicle measures just 3860mm in length, making it shorter than 4m and designed for easy manoeuvring in urban environments. Despite its compact footprint, the MT1 can seat five adults as standard, with an optional third-row configuration extending capacity to eight occupants.

Midgate system extends cargo capability

A key feature of the MT1 is its “midgate” folding system, which allows the rear bed to extend forward into the cabin. This expands the wellside from 1520mm to 2438mm, providing more cargo space than many medium-sized pickups.

The vehicle offers a maximum payload of 907kg and braked towing capacity of three tonnes. A tonneau cover provides security for cargo, while the design accommodates surfboards up to eight feet long when the long-load facility is activated.

Two variants are planned: a single-motor rear-wheel drive model producing 224kW, and a dual-motor all-wheel drive version with 373kW. The respective 0–100km/h acceleration times are five seconds and four seconds. The rear-drive model can be induced to drift, according to the company.

Range and charging specifications

The MT1 features a 106kWh battery pack with a claimed range of up to 560km. Fast charging from 20–80% is stated to take 20 minutes. A smaller battery option is also planned, offering up to 416km of range.

Base pricing starts at US$41520 for the rear-drive model, while the all-wheel drive variant is priced at US$46019. An optional camper shell is available for an additional US$2000, transforming the pickup into something resembling an SUV.

First deliveries are expected approximately one year from now, allowing time for final testing and development refinements.

Source: NZ Autocar