A teenager has been killed and his passenger taken to hospital following a crash at Malvern East.

The awful incident occurred on Moira Street in the early hours of Friday morning.

The 17-year-old driver from Glen Iris lost control and slammed into a tree.

He died at the scene.

His passenger, an 18-year-old Ashburton man, was taken to hospital.

Police are investigating whether speed, weather and inexperience were contributing factors.

Anyone who witnessed the collision is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au