Telo Teams Up With New Partner to Bring Tiny Electric Truck to Market
June 15, 2026
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Key Takeaways
Telo's MT1 compact electric truck is gaining momentum in the Canadian market, with a unique design and impressive range of up to 563 kilometres, making it an attractive option for Canadian EV enthusiasts.
The MT1 is expected to start at around $53,000 CAD, with a top-of-the-line model priced at $71,000 CAD, and may be eligible for the iZEV incentive program, offering up to $5,000 in rebates for eligible electric vehicles in Canada.
With over 12,000 refundable reservations accumulated, Telo is poised to make a significant impact in the Canadian electric vehicle market, particularly in urban centres like Toronto and Vancouver, where the MT1's compact size and versatility may appeal to residents looking for a capable electric truck.
Telo's Compact Electric Truck Gains Momentum in the Canadian Market
The Canadian electric vehicle (EV) market is abuzz with the latest news on compact, do-it-all electric trucks. With Ford and Slate set to launch their own models, Rivian's CEO has expressed his belief in the untapped potential of this market, which could be good news for Telo, a California-based startup. Telo's MT1, a unique blend of a Toyota Tacoma and Mini Cooper, has garnered significant attention since its reveal, and the company has recently shared an update on its production status.
Production Update and Partnership with Schwab Industries
In a production update shared on YouTube, Telo CEO Jason Marks announced that the company has partnered with auto veteran Schwab Industries to build the MT1's body-in-white structure. This critical step brings the truck closer to mass production, with Schwab's decades of experience in building and assembling stamped parts for automakers. The body-in-white is the foundation of the MT1, to which all components, including glass, seats, suspension, motor, and batteries, will be attached. Although this development may not seem exciting, it is a crucial step towards realizing the MT1's potential in the Canadian market, where it may be eligible for the iZEV incentive program, offering up to $5,000 in rebates for eligible EVs.
MT1 Specifications and Pricing
The MT1 is expected to start at around $53,000 CAD, considering the current exchange rate, with a range of 260 miles (approximately 420 kilometres). The top-of-the-line model, featuring dual motors, 350 miles (approximately 563 kilometres) of range, and solar-equipped accessories, will be priced around $71,000 CAD. The MT1's compact size, similar to a Mini Hardtop, and innovative packaging, which includes a 60-inch bed and collapsable partition, make it an attractive option for city-dwellers seeking a compact truck. Additionally, some Canadian provinces offer provincial rebates, such as British Columbia's SCRAP-IT program, which may provide further incentives for purchasing the MT1.
Market Challenges and Competition
Telo faces significant competition from established automakers, including Ford and Slate, which are set to launch their own compact electric trucks at a lower price point, starting at or under $30,000 CAD. However, Telo's focus on a niche market and its relatively modest production target of 6,000 units may help the company maintain its competitive edge. With over 12,000 refundable reservations already accumulated, Telo is poised to make a significant impact in the Canadian EV market, particularly in urban centres like Toronto and Vancouver, where the MT1's compact size and versatility may appeal to residents.
Conclusion
As Telo aims to start production by the end of 2026, Canadian EV enthusiasts can look forward to the MT1's arrival in the market. With its unique design, impressive range, and innovative features, the MT1 is sure to generate significant interest among those seeking a compact, do-it-all electric truck. As the Canadian EV market continues to evolve, Telo's success will depend on its ability to navigate the challenges posed by its competitors and establish itself as a major player in the industry.
