VW’s All-electric Scout Brand Reveal Coming on October 24th

Scout Motors, Volkswagen’s electric adventure truck spinoff, is set to reveal its first vehicle on October 24. This announcement marks the highly anticipated return of the classic International Harvester Scout brand, which VW decided to resurrect as an electric adventure vehicle two years ago, aiming to compete in the same niche as Rivian.

The original Scout vehicles were iconic off-road trucks built in the 1960s and 70s, with the last one rolling off the production line 44 years ago. The revival of this brand has been eagerly awaited by fans and automotive enthusiasts alike, as it promises to blend the rugged spirit of the original Scouts with modern electric vehicle technology. This upcoming reveal is expected to showcase how VW plans to reintroduce the Scout as a key player in the growing market for electric adventure vehicles.

On September 3, 2024, Scott Keogh, CEO at Scout Motors, released this announcement on his LinkedIn account:

“They say the best things come to those who wait. After two years of dreaming big and pushing boundaries, we’re ready to show the world the next generation of Scout vehicles. On October 24, 2024 – 44 years after the last Scout II™ rolled off the line – we’ll officially reveal our new Scout SUV and truck concepts.

While you won’t see a lot of teasers or taillights from us between now and October 24, here’s what I can tell you. Like the originals, you’ll know a Scout vehicle when you see one. A bold, iconic design featuring multifunctional spaces for gathering and connection. Built for work and play, our new Scout SUV and truck will be rugged, capable, and versatile. They have to be in order to credibly don the Scout badge. And with real tactile controls and real feel, they’ll meet the needs of Americans on the road and way off.

Building not only cars but a company and factory from the ground up can certainly feel like a herculean task, but what we’ve learned these past few years is quite simple. When you put American ingenuity back to work, anything is possible. We couldn’t be prouder to create American jobs and produce this awesome connection machine that will bring people together and closer to the experiences that mean the most to them.

If you’ve ever owned, driven, or even seen a Scout truck, you know it’s so much more than a vehicle or brand. It’s a way of life. Cheers to the remarkable community that has kept the hardworking scout spirit alive for decades and all the makers, doers, and everyday explorers. Our new Scout vehicles are for you.

October 24 can’t come soon enough!”

EVinfo.net agrees that “October 24 can’t come soon enough.” We are very excited to see this iconic brand return, but not only that, return as an all-electric brand.

Teasers Released

Although Scout Motors has stated that there won’t be many teasers leading up to the full reveal, a few early glimpses have already been shared. When Volkswagen first announced the revival of the Scout brand, they released design sketches that provided a sneak peek into the upcoming vehicle’s aesthetic. These sketches showcased a rugged, adventure-ready electric truck with a design that bears a resemblance to Rivian’s vehicles, emphasizing the blend of classic off-road capability with modern electric technology.

The sketches suggest that Scout Motors is aiming to capture the same adventurous spirit that made the original Scouts iconic, while also appealing to a new generation of electric vehicle enthusiasts who value both sustainability and performance. As we approach the official reveal, these early designs have only heightened anticipation for what Scout Motors has in store.

Scout’s “Real Tactile Controls”

Scout Motors is taking a unique approach with its upcoming electric adventure vehicle by focusing on “real tactile controls,” suggesting that the brand may diverge from the trend of all-digital cockpits that have become prevalent in modern vehicles, especially EVs. While touchscreen interfaces are popular for their ease of manufacturing, ability to facilitate deep over-the-air updates, and appeal to tech-savvy consumers, they can also be distracting or confusing, particularly for new owners who may prefer the familiarity and immediacy of physical controls.

This decision to emphasize tactile controls indicates that Scout Motors is prioritizing user experience and driver engagement, aiming to strike a balance between modern technology and practical usability. This approach is particularly intriguing given Volkswagen’s recent investment in Rivian for software support, especially since Scout appears to be targeting the same adventure-oriented niche that Rivian occupies.

As the automotive industry continues to evolve with a strong focus on digital innovation, Scout’s choice to integrate more traditional, tactile elements into their vehicles could set them apart, appealing to consumers who value straightforward, intuitive interfaces.

Scout’s Factory in Blythewood, South Carolina

Scout Motors’ upcoming 1,600-acre electric truck and SUV factory in Blythewood, South Carolina, represents a monumental development for both the state and the broader U.S. automotive industry. This facility is particularly significant for South Carolina, marking the largest development project in the region’s history and further establishing the state as a key hub for vehicle production. Scout joins major automakers like Volvo and BMW, which have already set up manufacturing operations in South Carolina, reinforcing the state’s growing reputation as a center for automotive excellence.

The projected economic impact of the Scout factory is estimated to be an impressive $4.2 billion. The facility is expected to create over 4,000 jobs and produce around 200,000 vehicles annually, making it a cornerstone of the state’s economic future. The South Carolina Legislature approved a $1.3 billion tax incentive package to secure the investment, with the expectation that Scout Motors would generate thousands of local jobs, significantly boosting the region’s economy.

The future Scout Motors factory in Blythewood, South Carolina, is strategically located along I-77 and Blythewood Road, just under 20 miles north of Columbia. This prime location provides Scout Motors with exceptional access to key transportation routes, including major highways and the ports of Charleston and Savannah. Additionally, the proximity to nearby cities and talent hubs such as Charleston, Charlotte, Greenville, and Atlanta offers a rich pool of resources, including top colleges and universities specializing in automotive engineering.

The factory is set to begin vehicle production by the end of 2026, with the first retail sales of Scout Motors’ trucks and SUVs expected shortly thereafter. These vehicles will be built on a newly designed all-electric platform, specifically engineered to deliver impressive off-road capabilities. Key features will include enhanced ground clearance, optimized approach angles, robust axles, and substantial payload capacity, alongside a strong focus on all-electric range and innovative digital features.

Since its inception in 2022, Scout Motors has rapidly expanded its workforce, hiring nearly 350 employees. This growth reflects the company’s commitment to establishing a strong presence in the electric vehicle market and ensuring the successful launch of its rugged, adventure-oriented vehicles.

Scout’s Columbia Connection Center

On April 9, 2024, Scout Motors Inc. announced the opening of its new Columbia Connection Center. This center is located on the ground floor of Scout Motors’ temporary offices in the First Base Building of the BullStreet District in Columbia, South Carolina.

The Columbia Connection Center features exhibits and displays that offer the community an opportunity to explore the rich history of the original Scout vehicles. Additionally, the center provides insights into Scout Motors’ vision for the future, including their ongoing efforts to bring a new generation of electric vehicles to market.

Visitors can also learn about the progress being made on the construction of Scout Motors’ Production Center in Blythewood. This new space reflects Scout Motors’ commitment to engaging with the local community and sharing its journey towards revolutionizing the adventure vehicle segment with sustainable, all-electric technology.

The International Scout, 1960 to 1980

International Harvester began building trucks and pickups in 1907. The International Scout was an influential off-road vehicle produced by International Harvester from 1960 to 1980. Designed as a competitor to the Jeep, the Scout was notable for its rugged capabilities and versatile design. It initially featured a fold-down windshield, enhancing its off-road utility and adventurous spirit.

The Scout and its successor, the Scout II, were manufactured in Fort Wayne, Indiana. They were available as two-door trucks with removable hard tops, offering various configurations including a full-length roof, a half-cab pickup, and a soft top. This flexibility made the Scout popular among enthusiasts for its adaptability to different uses and conditions, setting a precedent for the more sophisticated SUVs that would follow in subsequent decades. The Scout’s legacy continues to influence the design of modern off-road and adventure vehicles.