On Thursday, Volkswagen’s Scout Motors unveiled its concept electric SUV and truck, announcing extended-range versions that include a small gasoline engine to address U.S. drivers’ concerns about recharging. The full EV models will offer a driving range of up to 350 miles on a charge, while the extended-range version will stretch to 500 miles, powered by a gas engine that recharges the battery but does not drive the wheels directly. Scout’s production facility, a $2 billion factory in South Carolina, is expected to begin producing these vehicles in 2027.
Scout CEO Scott Keogh highlighted that offering both fully electric and extended-range versions makes the platform “future-proof,” allowing flexibility in production to meet consumer demand. In May 2022, the Scout brand announced itself as an EV-only standalone company, aiming to deliver SUVs and trucks that evoke nostalgia from the 1960s and 1970s while incorporating modern high-tech features. Unlike Tesla and other competitors, Scout will use mechanical switches and traditional door handles to cater to American buyers who want a blend of familiarity and technology.
In a notable shift from its previous strategy, Volkswagen’s Scout will sell vehicles directly to consumers, cutting out the conventional dealership model. This approach provides transparent pricing and enables customers to complete the transaction process in just minutes. Initially, Scout will operate around three dozen U.S. retail centers, with plans to expand to 100 as sales grow.
The first models, the Scout Traveler SUV and Scout Terra pickup, will be priced under $60,000. Scout plans to focus on SUVs for 65%-70% of its annual production capacity of 200,000 vehicles. These models will compete in the growing EV SUV and truck markets, taking on brands like Tesla, Rivian, Ford, and General Motors. Keogh likened the Scout SUV to a combination of a Land Rover Defender, Toyota Land Cruiser, and Ford Bronco, emphasizing its rugged appeal.
Volkswagen last sold pickups in the U.S. in the early 1980s. Scout Motors taps into the legacy of International Harvester’s Scout and Travelall, which were forerunners of today’s popular SUVs like the Ford Bronco and Chevrolet Suburban.
