Tomo Trucks, a Roanoke, Virginia-based startup, plans to build a compact pickup truck based on the Ford Ranger chassis aimed exclusively at commercial and job site use. The unnamed truck features a five-foot steel bed, an open-sided cab made from "bio-based" composite materials, and minimal bodywork. The cab and bed attach directly to a bare chassis with no additional creature comforts.
The company announced the project via a Facebook post and operates a website consisting only of a Google Form asking about budget and preferred platform. The form includes options for gasoline or electric Ranger platforms, as well as V8-powered F-150 and Super Duty diesel variants, suggesting Tomo may explore larger trucks after launching the Ranger-based model.
Tomo plans to deliver its first customer trucks in 2027, despite currently showing only a prototype. The company has not disclosed production volumes. Roanoke's location outside major automotive supply chains suggests production may remain small-batch.
The startup claims an association with Greenlander, a European adventure RV conversion company that uses eco-friendly materials. The reasoning behind choosing the Ranger over competing platforms like the Chevrolet Colorado or GMC Canyon remains unclear, though the approach of using an existing chassis simplifies development and leverages established parts supplies for owners.