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Is the world ready for a solar-powered pickup? It's about to get one, as Telo Trucks has partnered with solar car company Aptera to add solar panels to its MT1 pickup. Telo claims it has the world's most efficient electric truck, and says it can use solar panels to help charge up on the go even in remote locations.
Solar panels from Aptera on the roof of the truck and the tonneau cover for the bed help add charge to the Telo MT1's battery. Panels on the available camper shell help increase charging options for the truck if you're using it for camping instead of hauling, much like the ill-fated Ocean SUV.
Solar Panels on the Roof and Rear Provide an Additional Six Miles Daily
According to Telo, the solar panels can produce a maximum of 200 watts during optimal sunlight conditions, contributing between one and two kWh daily based on the vehicle's location. Telo also mentions that the MT1 is equipped with a 106 kWh battery, allowing for a range of 350 miles. This translates to approximately 3.3 miles per kWh, suggesting that utilizing the solar panels for charging could provide approximately six miles of driving range each day.
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Certainly, viewing it from that perspective might overlook the main idea. Relying solely on solar energy for charging could be impractical due to the time it requires, despite being abundant and cost-free. However, utilizing solar panels to generate enough power for the camper would significantly reduce the risk of draining your battery while enjoying time away from traditional power sources. This approach is far more convenient.
Charging via solar would also help reduce charging expenses, especially for trucks driven less frequently. They could add more significant range numbers if they sat for a few days. It wouldn't be the first vehicle with solar panels on the roof, but it might have the most useful offering so far outside of Aptera's own.
"TELO remains a top-tier automotive choice for car buyers, catering to a variety of needs—be it a reliable commuter car, a safer and more eco-friendly vehicle for family use, a sturdy pickup truck for outdoor adventures, or a versatile fleet vehicle designed to enhance business efficiency."
- Jason Marks, Chief Executive Officer, Telo Trucks.
Telo's Compact Truck Delivers 500 Horsepower with a 350-Mile Range
The Telo MT1 is a subcompact-sized pickup. It's just 152 inches long but offers a five-foot box, the same length as many full-sized pickups. Telo says it will seat five, with extra seating available to hold a total of eight. Telo launched the truck in 2023 and has been taking reservations since. It says the truck will offer 350 miles of range and can add 210 miles in 20 minutes of charging.
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A new electric truck has arrived, boasting impressive capabilities despite its compact size.
The acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is reported to take just 4.0 seconds, with a maximum speed of 125 mph powered by 500 horsepower generated from a pair of motors. Telo is in the process of developing its prototype truck, although they have yet to reveal when production is expected to begin. The manufacturer's suggested retail price, excluding solar panels, stands at $49,999. We'll have to wait and see if this becomes a reality.