Mini Beast - The automotive industry is evolving rapidly, with electric vehicles (EVs) leading the way toward a more sustainable future. While large electric trucks have gained traction, there is growing demand for compact yet powerful alternatives that fit urban environments without compromising capability.
The Telo MT1, a groundbreaking mini electric truck that challenges the trend of oversized pickup. (Picture from: Telo Trucks)
Addressing this need, California-based startup Telo Trucks has introduced the Telo MT1, a groundbreaking mini electric truck that challenges the trend of oversized pickups. As reported by Fox News, Telo recently unveiled the preproduction prototype of the MT1 in Los Angeles, giving the public a closer look at what could be a game-changer in the EV truck market.
The Telo MT1 offers two configurations: a base model with a 300-horsepower single-motor rear-wheel drive and a 260-mile range, and an upgraded dual-motor all-wheel-drive version delivering 500 horsepower with a 350-mile range. (Picture from: Telo Trucks)
Despite its small footprint—just 152 inches in length, comparable to a Mini Cooper SE—the Telo MT1 boasts the utility of a full-size pickup. It comfortably seats five adults while offering a 60-inch truck bed, and thanks to a folding midgate, it can accommodate large items like an 8-foot surfboard or 4-by-8 plywood sheets. This combination of practicality and space efficiency makes it ideal for both city driving and outdoor adventures.
The Telo MT1, despite its compact 152-inch length comparable to a Mini Cooper SE, offers the utility of a full-size pickup. (Picture from: Telo Trucks)
Performance-wise, the MT1 comes in two configurations. The base model features a single-motor, rear-wheel-drive system producing 300 horsepower with an estimated range of 260 miles. For those seeking more power, an upgraded dual-motor, all-wheel-drive version delivers 500 horsepower, extends the range to 350 miles, and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just four seconds. Fast-charging technology allows a 20%-80% recharge in only 20 minutes, while optional solar panels on the cab roof or tonneau cover can add up to 15 miles of additional range per day, boosting efficiency.
The Telo MT1 boasts the utility of a full-size pickup. It comfortably seats five adults while offering a 60-inch truck bed, and thanks to a folding midgate. (Picture from: Telo Trucks)
Beyond performance, the MT1 integrates innovative design features. Its adaptable layout allows the truck bed to extend into the cab, providing flexibility for different cargo and passenger needs. The interior is crafted with sustainable materials like biodegradable cork, ensuring a clean and minimalist aesthetic. Safety is also a priority, with advanced sensors and structural reinforcements designed to make the MT1 one of the most secure vehicles in its category.
The Telo MT1 prioritizes safety with advanced sensors and structural reinforcements, making it one of the most secure vehicles in its category. (Picture from: Telo Trucks)
Telo has ambitious plans for the MT1, with an initial price of $41,520 for the base model. According to Fox News, the company has already secured over 5,000 preorders, representing more than $250 million in customer commitments.
The Telo MT1 combines practicality and space efficiency, making it ideal for both city driving and outdoor adventures. (Picture from: Telo Trucks)
To bring the truck to market, Telo is working with the California-based Aria Group, a renowned manufacturer specializing in early-stage vehicle development and rapid prototyping for major automotive brands. While full-scale production is still a couple of years away, prototype testing is already in progress, with safety and durability evaluations set to take place before regulatory inspections next winter.
The Telo MT1 is a bold innovation in the electric truck segment, offering a compelling blend of compact design, impressive power, and eco-friendly features. While challenges remain—such as scaling production and maintaining affordability—this mini-truck has the potential to reshape the EV landscape. If Telo successfully delivers on its promises, the MT1 could become a top choice for drivers looking for a versatile, efficient, and sustainable truck tailored for modern living. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TELO TRUCKS | FOX NEWS ]
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Little Monster - The allure of high-performance sports cars often transcends borders, turning heads and capturing imaginations worldwide. Among the pantheon of these automotive marvels, one car stands out for its rarity, engineering brilliance, and the emotional response it evokes from enthusiasts: the Caral V8XS. Born from a foundation as unconventional as the GM Opel Speedster/Vauxhall VX220, this bespoke creation is a testament to the art of reinvention and innovation.
The Caral V8XS, born from a foundation as unconventional as the GM Opel Speedster/Vauxhall VX220. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
Radical Engineering - Motorcycle design has always been a delicate balance between innovation and practicality. Most manufacturers stick to conventional engineering, favoring tried-and-true methods that ensure reliability and ease of production. This is particularly evident in suspension design, where telescopic forks dominate the industry despite their well-documented shortcomings.
The Yamaha A-N-D FFE 350, crafted by Julian Farnam, is a forkless custom motorcycle built upon the iconic 1990s Yamaha RZ350 two-stroke racer. (Picture from: Silodrome)
However, for those willing to challenge the norm, alternative front suspension systems offer intriguing possibilities—something Julian Farnam understood when he set out to create a motorcycle that defied tradition. With a passion for engineering and a desire to push boundaries, Farnam took on the challenge of building a forkless front suspension system of his own.
The Yamaha A-N-D FFE 350's most radical feature is Julian Farnam's signature Forkless Front End (FFE) design, completely eliminating the standard fork. (Picture from: Odd-Bike)
Lacking the massive resources of big-name manufacturers, he relied on skill, ingenuity, and sheer determination to bring his vision to life. The result was the Yamaha A-N-D FFE 350—a remarkable machine that looks less like a home-built custom and more like an advanced prototype from a major factory R&D department.
The remarkable Yamaha A-N-D FFE 350 resembles an advanced factory prototype rather than a home-built custom. (Picture from: Odd-Bike)
At its core, the FFE 350 is based on a Yamaha RZ350, a legendary two-stroke racer from the 1990s. Farnam’s modifications, however, set it apart from anything else on the road. The most radical change was his signature Forkless Front End (FFE) design, which completely eliminated the standard front fork.
While forkless designs avoid traditional fork issues, they introduce challenges like slop and vibration, which Julian Farnam mitigated using tensioned dual linkages for a precise, connected feel. (Picture from: Odd-Bike)
Traditional telescopic forks, despite their widespread use, have inherent issues such as flexing under load and changes in geometry under braking. By removing the forks and implementing a system of linkages, Farnam aimed to create a more stable and responsive front suspension. Of course, forkless designs come with their own engineering challenges.
They require intricate linkage systems, which, if not properly designed,
can introduce slop and unwanted vibrations.
The Yamaha A-N-D FFE 350 features a custom twin-tube cradle frame without a headstock or backbone, using gusseted brackets for front suspension mounting. (Picture from: Odd-Bike)
Farnam addressed this challenge with two sets of tensioned linkages, eliminating play and delivering a direct, connected feel akin to conventional forks—without their drawbacks. The result was a precision-handling bike that offered a truly unique riding experience. Following the completion of the FFE 350, Julian launched his own frame company, A-N-D Vehicles, but despite praise from seasoned racers and impressive performance, the venture ultimately did not succeed.
The Yamaha A-N-D FFE 350 retains an OEM look with a standard RZ tank and a modified Ducati 916 tail, while its unfaired design showcases the innovative front suspension. (Picture from: Odd-Bike)
The FFE 350 wasn’t just a concept or a showpiece—it was a fully functional machine that saw track action in Southern California, proving its capabilities in real-world conditions. However, despite its performance advantages, the radical design never gained commercial traction, and the bike eventually found its way into storage. Yet, true to his passion, Farnam remains dedicated to his creation. As of recent years, he has been working to restore the FFE 350 to its former glory, keeping alive the spirit of innovation that first inspired him to build it. | WsCtsyrXzFk |
The
Yamaha A-N-D FFE 350 was more than just a showpiece—it tore up local
tracks in Southern California with impressive performance. (Picture from: Odd-Bike)
In an industry where convention often takes precedence over experimentation, projects like the Yamaha A-N-D FFE 350 serve as reminders that true progress comes from those willing to challenge the status quo. Farnam’s work stands as both an engineering marvel and a testament to the creativity of independent builders—proving that sometimes, the best ideas come from outside the mainstream.
Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CUSTOMFIGHTERS | ODD-BIKE | SILODROME | HACKADAY ]
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Retro Futurism - The automotive world has always been driven by innovation, blending past inspirations with modern technology to create something truly special. Over the years, sports cars have evolved, but certain elements from classic designs continue to captivate enthusiasts. One such feature is pop-up headlights, a design staple from the 1970s and 1980s that has all but disappeared due to modern regulations. However, Bertone is bringing it back with the all-new Runabout, a striking supercar that pays homage to the past while embracing the future.
Bertone
offers the all-new Runabout in two distinct configurations: the
open-cockpit Barchetta and the more versatile Targa with a removable
roof. (Picture from: Motortrend)
Bertone, an iconic Italian design house, has a long history of shaping the automotive landscape. Known for legendary creations like the Lamborghini Countach and Alfa Romeo Montreal, the company has always pushed boundaries. The original Bertone Runabout concept, introduced in 1969, was a bold experiment in design, featuring a wedge-shaped body and an open-cockpit layout. It later inspired the Fiat X/19, a production car that carried forward its radical styling. Now, decades later, Bertone is reviving the Runabout with a limited-production model that blends retro aesthetics with cutting-edge performance.
The all-new Runabout Barchetta stays true to the original with its narrow, open cockpit design. (Picture from: Suara)
Unlike the original concept, which was never meant for the road, the new Runabout is a fully functional supercar. Powering this exclusive machine is a V6 engine producing 460 horsepower, making it far more powerful than its predecessor. The aggressive, low-slung stance remains, but modern updates ensure that it meets today’s performance and safety standards. Notably, the return of pop-up headlights sets it apart from most contemporary supercars, giving it a distinctive "blinking eye" effect that adds to its charm.
The all-new Runabout Targa comes with a larger windshield and a removable roof for added versatility. (Picture from: Motortrend)
Due to strict pedestrian safety laws that have phased out pop-up headlights in most markets, Bertone has taken a unique approach. The Runabout will be produced in an extremely limited run of just 25 units, potentially allowing it to bypass certain regulations. Another possibility is that it will be sold only in select regions where such design elements are still permitted. Regardless, this exclusivity only adds to its appeal among collectors and enthusiasts.
The all-new Bertone Runabout, shown here in the Targa variant, retains its aggressive, low-slung stance while modern updates improve performance and safety, with pop-up headlights adding a unique 'blinking eye' effect that sets it apart from contemporary supercars.(Picture from: Suara)
Bertone offers the new Runabout in two configurations: Barchetta and Targa. The Barchetta version stays true to the original concept with a narrow, open cockpit, while the Targa features a larger windshield and a removable roof, offering more versatility. Buyers can personalize their Runabout with three unique colors: Rame Antico, a rich copper-like shade; Azzurro Mediterraneo, a deep Mediterranean blue; and Bianco Perla, a refined ivory.
The all-new Bertone Runabout, shown here in the Targa variant, is powered by a V6 engine producing 460 horsepower, making it vastly more powerful than its predecessor. (Picture from: Motortrend)
The design of the new Runabout is both futuristic and nostalgic. A seamless DRL light bar is integrated into the front, complementing the dramatic L-shaped profile. Strong, angular lines emphasize its aggressive stance, while the rear features two circular taillights and a vent hinting at the mid-mounted V6 powerhouse. Every detail reflects Bertone’s signature styling, making the Runabout an instant classic.
With a starting price of €350,000 (approx. $369,000), the new Bertone Runabout is a luxury statement as much as it is a performance machine. Its combination of heritage-inspired design, modern engineering, and extreme exclusivity makes it a highly desirable piece of automotive history. By reviving the Runabout, Bertone is not just bringing back a classic name but also reaffirming its place among the most innovative design houses in the world. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BERTONE | MOTORTREND | DESIGNBOOM ]
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Forgotten Futurism - The 1930s marked an era of bold automotive experimentation. With the Great Depression disrupting industries, many ambitious entrepreneurs saw an opportunity to introduce radical vehicle concepts. One such visionary was Paul M. Lewis, who sought to revolutionize transportation with his streamlined, three-wheeled vehicle called Airomobile.
The 1937 Lewis Airomobile Prototype now resides in the National Automobile Museum in Reno, Nevada, where visitors can marvel at this ambitious yet ill-fated creation. (Picture from: ThrottleExtreme)
Unlike conventional cars of its time, the Airomobile was designed to be affordable, highly efficient, and aerodynamically advanced—offering a glimpse into a future where cars defied traditional design and function. However, despite its innovative engineering, it remained a dream that never reached mass production.
The 1937 Lewis Airomobile prototype was built and designed by a team consisting of John Tjaarda and former Franklin Automobile Company engineers Carl Doman and Edward Marks, under the commission of Paul M. Lewis. (Picture from: ThrottleExtreme)
Lewis first introduced the idea in 1934, forming Lewis American Airways to develop the car. To bring his vision to life, he assembled a team of experts, including John Tjaarda, a renowned automotive designer known for his work on the Lincoln Zephyr, and two former Franklin Automobile Company engineers, Carl Doman and Edward Marks. With their combined expertise, the team created a car that stood out from anything else on the road.
The 1937 Lewis Airomobile featured front-wheel drive and steering, an unconventional setup designed to enhance stability and control. (Picture from: ThrottleExtreme)
At first glance, the Airomobile had a striking resemblance to other futuristic cars of the era, such as Buckminster Fuller's Dymaxion. However, unlike the Dymaxion, which had rear-wheel steering, the Airomobile featured front-wheel drive and front-wheel steering. This setup, while unconventional, was intended to provide greater stability and control.
The
1937 Lewis Airomobile featured front-wheel drive and steering, an
unconventional setup designed to enhance stability and control. (Picture from: ThrottleExtreme)
The vehicle's lightweight chassis and aerodynamic body allowed it to reach speeds of up to 80 mph while delivering an impressive fuel efficiency of 40 miles per gallon. Under the hood, Doman and Marks developed a unique 129-cubic-inch, air-cooled, flat-four engine that produced 60 horsepower—an advanced design that would later influence aircraft engines.
The 1937 Lewis Airomobile powered by a a unique 129-cubic-inch, air-cooled, flat-four engine that produced 60 horsepower—an advanced design that would later influence aircraft engines. (Picture from: ThrottleExtreme)
To prove the Airomobile’s capabilities, Lewis embarked on an ambitious promotional tour in 1937, covering 45,000 miles across the United States. He claimed the car performed exceptionally well, averaging 44 mph and 80 mpg. However, not everyone was convinced. Investors remained skeptical, and despite modifications to the front-end design in 1938, funding never materialized. The Airomobile, with its $550 projected price tag, was ultimately deemed too radical for mass production. With no financial backing, the project came to a halt, leaving only a single prototype behind.
The 1937 Lewis Airomobile's lightweight chassis and aerodynamic body allowed it to reach speeds of up to 80 mph while delivering an impressive fuel efficiency of 40 miles per gallon. (Picture from: MacsMotorCityGarage)
Although the Airomobile itself faded into obscurity, its innovative engine found a second life. The Doman-Marks flat-four evolved into the Franklin 4AC-150, later produced by Air Cooled Motors and used in small aircraft during the 1940s, including Piper and Taylorcraft planes. Meanwhile, Paul M. Lewis continued his pursuit of futuristic automobiles, later developing the eccentric Fascination series, which, like the Airomobile, never reached commercial success. | rIyQPjU5gPQ |
Today, the lone Airomobile prototype survives as a rare piece of automotive history. Pioneering car collector Bill Harrah acquired and restored it, ensuring its preservation for future generations. It now resides in the National Automobile Museum in Reno, Nevada, where visitors can marvel at this ambitious yet ill-fated creation. While the Airomobile never made it to production, it remains a testament to the daring ingenuity of its time—a reminder that even the most unconventional ideas can leave a lasting mark on the world of transportation. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MACSMOTORCITYGARAGE | THROTTLEEXTREME | LUXURYEXPERIENCE ]
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Compact Brilliance - Abarth is a name that resonates with automotive enthusiasts worldwide, symbolizing the pinnacle of small-car engineering and motorsports triumphs. The journey of Abarth cars, particularly the extraordinary Fiat Abarth OT Periscopio, is a tale of innovation, resilience, and passion. To appreciate this legacy, it’s essential to delve into the origins of the man behind the brand, Carlo Abarth, and the unique circumstances that gave birth to this iconic model—a car as rare and magical as a mythical one-horned unicorn.
The 1966 Fiat Abarth OT 1300 Periscopio, a Gran Turismo marvel developed in 1965. This car was crafted on the remnants of Simca 1000 chassis floor pans. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
Carlo Abarth, born in Austria, was a visionary who transformed modest vehicles into motorsport marvels. By the 1960s, Abarth had cemented his reputation as a master of reengineering, partnering with brands like Fiat, Simca, and Porsche to create high-performance vehicles. His relentless pursuit of excellence led to the birth of the Abarth OT 1300, a Gran Turismo marvel developed in 1965. This car was crafted on the remnants of Simca 1000 chassis floor pans, a result of a halted collaboration between Abarth and Simca after Chrysler acquired a controlling stake in the French company.
The 1966 Fiat Abarth OT 1300 Periscopio powered by a 1.3-liter Abarth engine producing 147 horsepower at an astonishing 8,800 rpm, boasted a dry-sump lubrication system, dual Weber carburetors, and a five-speed transaxle. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
The Abarth OT 1300 emerged as a technical masterpiece. Built on a modified Simca 1000 platform, it featured a lightweight yet rigid pressed-steel chassis and a fiberglass body designed by Mario Colucci. The innovative design extended to its mechanics. Powered by a 1.3-liter Abarth engine producing 147 horsepower at an astonishing 8,800 rpm, the Abarth OT 1300 boasted a dry-sump lubrication system, dual Weber carburetors, and a five-speed transaxle. The car's dimensions were meticulously calibrated for racing, with a wheelbase of 2,015 mm and independent suspension ensuring agility and stability on the track.
The 1968 Fiat Abarth OT 2000 Periscopio while sat on display at the 2019 Goodwood Festival of Speed. (Picture from: UltimateCarPage)
Among the car’s standout features was its distinctive periscopic air intake mounted high on the roof—a design as captivating as the horn of a unicorn. Much like the mythical creature, the "Periscopio" was not only visually striking but also served a functional purpose. The intake channeled cool air into the cockpit to counteract the heat generated by water and oil-cooling pipes running through the cabin, ensuring driver comfort during grueling endurance races. This combination of practicality and flair made the OT "Periscopio" a marvel both on and off the track, evoking the mystique and rarity of its mythical counterpart.
The 1968 Fiat Abarth OT 2000 Periscopio, a more powerful evolution of the OT 1300, with its even more prominent "unicorn horn" air intake, cemented its place in automotive lore.(Picture from: Lotus16)
Building on the success of the OT 1300, Abarth developed the Abarth OT 2000, a more powerful iteration featuring a 2.0-liter engine capable of producing 215 horsepower. This version, with its even more prominent "unicorn horn" air intake, cemented its place in automotive lore. With a top speed exceeding 165 mph, the OT 2000 showcased Abarth's prowess in extracting extraordinary performance from humble engine blocks. Drivers, including renowned Formula 1 racer Jochen Rindt, regularly pushed these cars to their limits, solidifying their reputation on tracks worldwide.
The 1968 Fiat Abarth OT 2000 Periscopio demonstrated Abarth's mastery in achieving extraordinary performance, reaching speeds over 165 mph from modest engine origins. (Picture from: UltimateCarPage)
The OT 1300 and its successor, the OT 2000, were not merely engineering achievements; they represented the spirit of innovation that defined Abarth as a brand. These cars, though small in size, were monumental in their impact, claiming hundreds of victories and elevating Abarth's status as a premier race car manufacturer. By the late 1960s, Abarth's dedication to performance and design had earned it a revered place in automotive history.
The 1968 Fiat Abarth OT 2000 Periscopio crafted only three units, making it one of the rarest and most coveted Abarth cars in history. (Picture from: Fiat Abarth La Passion)
In terms of production numbers, the OT 1300 met the FIA's homologation requirements with at least 50 units reportedly built. This already limited figure highlights the rarity of this model. However, its successor, the OT 2000 "Periscopio," was produced in an even more exclusive number. Only three units of the OT 2000 were ever created, making it one of the rarest and most coveted Abarth cars in history.
The 1968 Fiat Abarth OT 2000 Periscopioequipped with a 2.0-liter engine delivering 215 horsepower. (Picture from: Lotus16)
Today, the Fiat Abarth OT 'Periscopio' remains a symbol of Karl Abarth's ingenuity and the golden era of motorsport. Its striking design, characterized by the iconic roof-mounted air intake, continues to inspire car enthusiasts and collectors alike. Much like a unicorn, its rarity and uniqueness make it a coveted masterpiece in the automotive world—a reminder of an era where artistry met engineering with uncompromising precision.
As we reflect on the achievements of Karl Abarth and his remarkable creations, the story of the OT "Periscopio" serves as a reminder that true innovation stems from embracing challenges and pushing boundaries. These cars are not just vehicles but enduring icons of what passion and vision can achieve. And just like the unicorn that dazzles our imagination, the "Periscopio" continues to captivate hearts, a timeless testament to Abarth's dream of creating magic on wheels. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MOTORTREND | CONCEPTCARZ | DANAUS.NET | AUTA5P.EU | HISTORICAUTOPRO | WEBCARSTORY | EGZOSTIVE | ULTIMATECARPAGE | BERNIMOTORI ] FIAT ABARTH LA PASSION | LOTUS16 ]
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The Telo MT1 is a bold innovation in the electric truck segment, offering a compelling blend of compact design, impressive power, and eco-friendly features. While challenges remain—such as scaling production and maintaining affordability—this mini-truck has the potential to reshape the EV landscape. If Telo successfully delivers on its promises, the MT1 could become a top choice for drivers looking for a versatile, efficient, and sustainable truck tailored for modern living. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TELO TRUCKS | FOX NEWS ]
