New Scout Concepts Will Debut at Jazz Aspen Snowmass Experience in CO, September 4-6

Scout Motors is introducing two distinct versions of its Scout Traveler SUV concept, demonstrating how the same vehicle can be configured for different lifestyles and approaches to adventure.

The new Mountainside concept takes the Traveler in a warmer, more refined and premium direction, while a reimagined trail-ready concept emphasizes the SUV’s rugged appearance and off-road capabilities. Both Traveler concepts will make their first public appearance together alongside the Scout Terra pickup truck at the Jazz Aspen Snowmass Labor Day Experience in Snowmass, Colorado, from September 4 through September 6, 2026.

“The Traveler is designed for a wide range of lives, from everyday family adventures to serious off-road exploration,” said Chris Benjamin, Chief Design Officer at Scout Motors. “Mountainside and the trail-ready concept show two vastly different expressions of the same authentic Scout character. By expanding our Traveler concept vehicle lineup, we’re helping customers envision how Scout vehicles can fit into their lives while staying true to the capability, authenticity and versatility that define the Scout brand.”

Mountainside Concept Brings a More Refined Traveler

The Traveler Mountainside concept explores a warmer and more premium interpretation of the SUV while retaining its connection to outdoor adventure.

Scout Motors designed the Mountainside concept around the feeling of returning home after spending a day outdoors. The interior and exterior use warm colors, tactile surfaces and authentic materials intended to develop a more personal character over time.

The Color, Materials and Finishes team at Scout Motors selected rich natural tones and carefully considered details throughout the vehicle.

The exterior is finished in Morning Dusk, a deep charcoal-brown color inspired by the final light of golden hour. When exposed to direct sunlight, the finish reveals subtle golden metallic highlights.

The Mountainside concept also features a panoramic sunroof and 22-inch Vault wheels with an anodized black and brushed finish. The wheels are paired with 35-inch tires, giving the more refined concept a substantial stance while retaining its connection to outdoor use.

Inside, the Mountainside uses the Alpine District theme. Semi-aniline leather provides a soft, natural appearance while retaining the authentic markings of the material.

Custom gray woven fabrics feature a subtle plaid pattern inspired by the interiors of historic Scout vehicles. Recycled walnut trim adds another natural material to the cabin, while warm accent colors provide additional contrast.

Houndstooth-patterned fabric covers the headliner and pillars, adding another traditional design element.

Scout Motors also emphasizes physical interaction inside the Traveler. Rugged, tactile door handles, buttons and knobs provide direct control of important vehicle functions rather than relying entirely on touchscreen interfaces.

The interior also incorporates stainless steel speaker covers featuring the Harvester grid pattern. A panoramic sunroof completes the cabin and brings additional light and an open-air feel to the interior.

Trail-Ready Concept Focuses on Off-Road Capability

The second Traveler concept takes the vehicle in a significantly more rugged direction.

Where the Mountainside concept emphasizes warmth and refinement, the reimagined trail-ready Traveler highlights the SUV’s off-road character and capability.

Its Galvanized Steel exterior finish draws inspiration from raw metal, honest utility and equipment designed to withstand demanding environments. The roof is finished in Canvas, creating contrast while adding warmth to the otherwise functional exterior color palette.

Scout Motors equipped the trail-ready concept with a collection of accessories designed specifically for off-road use.

Full-metal front and rear bumpers are designed to provide additional off-road utility while maintaining the Traveler’s approach and departure angles. An integrated front winch provides recovery capability, while a rear tow hitch adds additional utility.

An elevated roof rack incorporates forward-facing trail lights, and rock rails provide additional protection along the sides of the vehicle.

The concept also features an exterior spare-tire carrier with an integrated fuel caddy, giving the vehicle additional equipment for extended off-road trips.

The trail-ready Traveler rides on 18-inch beadlock wheels finished in a combination of gloss black and satin black. The wheels are fitted with 35-inch off-road tires.

A black Cabana Top roof provides a full open-air experience, giving the trail-ready concept another way to connect the cabin with its surroundings.

The interior follows a different design direction from the Mountainside. The Denim District theme draws inspiration from durable American workwear as well as the agricultural roots associated with the Scout brand.

Brick Red leather is used across the instrument panel, seats, armrests and grab handles. Denim-inspired fabric accents appear on the upper portions of the seats, door panels and accessory straps.

The combination of workwear-inspired materials and modern design is intended to reinforce the Traveler’s emphasis on function, durability and character.

Scout Motors Prepares for Production

Scout Motors is continuing construction of its new Production Center in Blythewood, South Carolina. More than 4,000 employees are planned to work at the facility, where the company will assemble the Scout Traveler SUV and Scout Terra pickup truck.

The company is also beginning testing and validation of early prototype vehicles as development progresses toward production.

Scout Motors plans to begin producing initial validation vehicles at the Blythewood Production Center in 2026. Testing and development will continue and mature throughout 2027, with customer deliveries of new Scout vehicles expected to begin in 2028.

Powertrains

The Traveler will be available with either a battery-electric powertrain or Scout’s Harvester extended-range system. Fully electric versions are projected to provide up to 350 miles of range, while extended-range versions are anticipated to offer more than 500 miles through an onboard generator.

The Harvester system is designed to address one of the biggest concerns surrounding electric vehicles: long-distance travel in areas where charging infrastructure may be limited. The system combines an electric drivetrain with a gasoline-powered engine that operates as a generator to recharge the vehicle’s high-voltage battery. This allows drivers to use either charging stations or gasoline when additional energy is needed.

Reviving the Scout Name

The Scout name dates back to the original Scout utility vehicle produced by International Harvester from 1961 through 1980.

The original Scout was designed to combine off-road capability with the practicality required for everyday family and work use. Over time, it became an American automotive icon and developed a dedicated community of owners who continue to use Scout vehicles on farms, in the wilderness and for family activities.

Scout Motors was established to develop a new generation of trucks and rugged SUVs based on the characteristics that made the original Scout successful.