The Scout Re-emerges
Like the Phoenix, the Scout brand made a vibrant comeback in the sunny city of Nashville, TN. Now a division of Volkswagen AG, the Scout is revitalized and ready for the road. Only this time, the brand is debuting an all-electric SUV and pickup truck, blending innovation with a nod to its storied heritage.
A brief history.
The brand was originally built by farm implement manufacturer, International Harvester, which introduced the Scout in November 1960. Scout quickly became the company’s best-selling product line and competed against the Jeep Wrangler (CJ) as an off-roader. However, the Scout brand and its vehicles were apparently ahead of the curve, as SUVs targeted a relatively narrow market segment. Heck, no one even knew what an SUV was. The nameplate was discontinued on October 21, 1980, when the last Scout rolled off the assembly line. Ironically, it was just before the real surge in SUV demand began.
In the meantime, International Harvester struggled and its remnants reemerged in 1986 as the newly formed Navistar Corporation. Shifting its focus to heavy-duty road-going trucks and buses, the corporation allowed the Scout brand to fade into obscurity until it was acquired by Volkswagen in 2022.
From the ashes: The Scout Traveler and Scout Terra.
The Traveler SUV and Terra pickup truck signaled the brand’s re-entry into the market.
Scout officials presented the prototypes of the Scout Traveler SUV and Scout Terra pickup, The prototype designs we witnessed are a modern interpretation of the iconic vehicles of the past. While these are design exercises that may change before actual production begins, they bear a representation of what to expect once they hit the road again.
Scout announced exciting performance specifications for its latest models, including the Terra pickup and the Traveler SUV. Both vehicles are designed with impressive acceleration, reaching speeds from 0 to 60 MPH in just 3.5 seconds. This remarkable acceleration is made possible by an electric powertrain with nearly 1,000 pounds of torque, coupled with an advanced all-wheel-drive system, which ensures maximum traction and control on various terrains. Each vehicle has solid rear axles and features mechanical locking differentials in the front and rear, enhancing performance in challenging driving conditions.
Scout anticipates that the all-electric models will offer up to 350 miles of range, and the extended-range variants will offer more than 500 miles, thanks to a game-changing gas generator built into the powertrain.
These new Scout models will utilize robust body-on-frame platforms in terms of construction. This design choice enhances durability and off-road capability, making them ideal for adventure enthusiasts. They have multifunctional spaces and technical specifications for off-road handling.
The Terra pickup displays impressive capabilities, too. Towing is one area where it shines, offering a maximum tow capacity of up to 10,000 pounds. A payload capacity of 2,000 pounds, makes it a reliable option for work and recreational use. Meanwhile, the Traveler SUV is designed for versatility, with a robust towing capacity of 7,000 pounds. This allows it to handle various tasks and still provide comfort for its passengers.
Overall, the Terra and Traveler are engineered for performance, utility, and durability, making them strong market contenders for those seeking power and practicality.
Anticipation.
This brief look at the latest addition to the electric vehicle segment did not disappoint. The interior is beautifully crafted, boasting high-quality leather that feels luxurious and durable. The double stitching throughout adds a touch of elegance and showcases meticulous attention to detail. One of the standout features is the use of hemp wood accents, which enhances the aesthetic appeal and highlights a commitment to sustainable materials.
The vehicle includes a retro-style bench seat, perfect for those who travel with pets. This thoughtful design allows your four-legged companion to comfortably snuggle beside you, creating a cozy atmosphere as you embark on adventures together and drive into the sunset. The blend of modern technology with classic elements makes this electric vehicle unique.
The brand is expected to officially launch in 2027 as 2028 models. They will be built in South Carolina, in a factory capable of turning out up to 200,000 vehicles per year.
