Tesla’s original founders back new mini EV truck: Should Elon Musk be worried?

Elon Musk’s Tesla might be dominating the EV market, but a new player has entered the arena—one that has the backing of Tesla’s original co-founders. Telo Trucks, a startup focusing on compact electric pickups, has caught the attention of Martin Eberhard and Marc Tarpenning, the very men who co-founded Tesla before Musk took over.

With a fresh approach to electric utility vehicles, Telo Trucks’ MT1 mini pickup is designed for urban dwellers and adventure seekers alike. But with Tesla already facing mounting issues with its Cybertruck, could this be yet another headache for Musk?

Meet Telo: The Smartest Mini-Truck on the Block

Unlike the massive and futuristic Cybertruck, Telo MT1 embraces practicality and efficiency. Measuring just 152 inches in length—shorter than a Mini Hardtop—but boasting a five-seat cabin and a 60-inch bed, the MT1 is redefining what a compact truck can be.


Tesla’s original co-founders aren’t just supporting this project from the sidelines. Eberhard and Tarpenning are actively investing and advising Telo Trucks, marking the first time they’ve backed an EV rival since parting ways with Musk’s empire.

Cybertruck’s Bumpy Ride—An Opportunity for Telo?

While Telo is gaining momentum, Tesla’s Cybertruck has been hitting roadblocks. Tesla recently recalled over 46,000 Cybertrucks due to a detaching panel issue, making it the eighth recall for the highly anticipated yet controversial vehicle.

Unlike Tesla’s usual software-based fixes, this glue-related problem requires Cybertrucks to be physically taken to service centers, raising concerns about the durability of Musk’s ambitious stainless steel design.

Meanwhile, Telo’s MT1 is moving toward production with partnerships lined up, including one with Aptera Motors for integrated solar panel options and another with Aria Group to build its first fully functional prototypes.

Can Telo Steal Tesla’s Thunder?

Telo’s sleek and efficient city-friendly electric truck presents an alternative to the bulky, aggressive styling of traditional pickups. And with Tesla’s founding brains backing it, the company is bound to generate more curiosity and demand.

Could this be another case of Tesla’s former innovators shaking up the industry and giving Musk a run for his money? If Cybertruck’s troubles persist, Telo might just emerge as the unexpected dark horse of the EV truck race.