Scout Motors, founded in the 1960s as a producer of agricultural machinery and trucks, is being brought back to life by Volkswagen as an electric vehicle company.
Volkswagen first announced its intentions with the Scout brand in 2022. The company acquired the brand through an acquisition of Traton in 2020.
Scott Keogh, former CEO of Volkswagen Group America, is at the helm of Scout Motors and aims to make it a player in the growing off-road EV market.
Volkswagen has already pledged $1 billion in funding the brand’s revival and
“We’re here to celebrate the revitalization of an American icon and the reshoring of American jobs. On this land – with our hands and with our technology – we will build great vehicles,” Scott Keogh said at the time.
Scout’s SUV and Pickup
Scout has unveiled two models: the Traveler SUV and the Terra pickup truck.
The two models, which could start at $60,000, before incentives, are expected to begin production in late 2026 or early 2027.
Scout’s description of the Traveler SUV appeals to drivers who want a reliable daily driver but also enjoy venturing off-road.
Some of its features highlighted include: front and rear locking Differentials, 4-Wheel Drive, and a body-on-frame platform.
When it comes to range, the Scout website says its electric Traveler will offer up to 350 miles of range as standard, with extended range models offering up to 500 miles “through a built-in, gas-powered generator.”
According to AutoExpress, Keogh said that the SUV will be capable of 0-60mph in around 3.5 seconds.
The Terra shares many features with the Traveler, but adds pickup practicality with a “5.5 feet bed plus ample storage throughout.”
Scout will compete with the likes of Rivian’s R1S and upcoming R2. However, at a competitive price point, Scout’s lineup may sway would-be Rivian buyers.