TELO Trucks, a pioneering EV mini-truck company, has unveiled plans to construct its initial two fully operational prototypes in partnership with California-based manufacturing leader Aria Group. Aria Group is renowned for its early-stage development of concept vehicles and rapid prototyping across diverse sectors including automotive, aerospace, maritime, and entertainment.
The announcement coincides with TELO’s one-year anniversary and follows a successful $5.4M strategic funding round led by Neo, with additional investment from Spero Ventures and others. Marc Tarpenning, co-founder of Tesla, has also joined TELO’s Board, contributing his extensive EV expertise.
“For TELO Trucks Co-Founder and CTO Forrest North, Aria Group was the obvious choice for our prototype development,” said North. “Their reputation for meticulous craftsmanship in full-service product development and prototyping is unmatched.”
TELO represents a new wave of EV startups, utilizing its funding not only to create the most compact electric truck but also to address urban transportation challenges. With final design phases underway, Aria Group is gearing up to transform TELO’s vision into reality, integrating cutting-edge rapid manufacturing technology with innovative design and engineering.
Clive Hawkins, President and Founder of Aria Group, emphasized, “Our unconventional methods align perfectly with TELO’s advanced automotive design and electrification approach. We’re thrilled to contribute to clean-tech advancement, shaping the future of transportation.”
Since its launch, TELO has garnered over 3,000 pre-orders nationwide. The mini-truck combines the compact agility of a MINI Cooper with the utility of a Toyota Tacoma, incorporating advanced driving technologies, safety features, and a fast-charge, 350-mile range battery to redefine the pickup experience.
