Scout Motors unveils rugged electric vehicles manufactured in South Carolina.
The new electric vehicle brand Scout Motors from the Volkswagen Group will begin operations with the launch of an electric pickup truck and an SUV in 2027.
Volkswagen has recently unveiled its new electric vehicle brand, Scout Motors, which is based both on modern innovation and a heritage from the past. This launch includes the Scout Traveler, an electric SUV, and the Scout Terra, an electric pickup truck, both inspired by the iconic International Harvester Scout, a vehicle produced from 1961 to 1980 that popularized the concept of all-terrain utility vehicles.
The choice of the name Scout for these new models provides Volkswagen with a connection to history and suggests that the brand will bring a range of off-road vehicles that have been missing from its product lineup in the U.S. The production of both models will take place at a new plant in South Carolina, with a projected launch date in 2027.
In terms of design, the new vehicles feature a square aesthetic reminiscent of the original Scout. However, they also incorporate classic features such as body-on-frame construction, mechanical four-wheel drive systems, and solid rear axles. These characteristics position them closer to gasoline off-road vehicles like the Ford Bronco or Jeep Wrangler, rather than other electric offerings.
Inside, Scout Motors has opted for an approach that combines modernity with tradition. While it will have a 16.2-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, most controls will be analog. In addition, it will offer a front bench seat, something rare in current models, allowing for a touch of nostalgia.
In terms of performance, the Scout electric vehicles stand out with their towing capabilities, with a maximum capacity of 10,000 pounds for the Terra truck and 7,000 pounds for the Traveler SUV, competitive figures compared to mid-size gasoline trucks. Both models are designed to offer exceptional off-road capabilities, including space for tires up to 35 inches and up to 12 inches of ground clearance.
Regarding charging, the models will be equipped with a Tesla-style connector for fast DC charging and will use an 800-volt electrical architecture, allowing for rapid charging of up to 350 kilowatts. There will also be bidirectional charging options, enabling the vehicles to act as mobile power sources.
Although prices have increased from initial estimates by Scout's CEO, Scott Keogh, who suggested a starting price around $40,000, it is now expected that both the SUV and truck will be around $60,000, with the SUV potentially costing around $50,000 and the truck $51,500 once incentives are considered. Customers can place a refundable deposit of $100 to reserve one of these vehicles, which will be sold online without requiring customer data commitment.
If a truly retro driving experience materializes, Scout could stand out in the emerging electric off-road vehicle market, offering something different from what is currently available.
