Scout Motors previews two EV models for 2027

Scout, a 60-year old brand of off-road vehicles unknown outside the USA, has gained a new lease of life with its acquisition by Volkswagen in 2021 via the Navistar purchase. The brand was originally owned by International Harvester which was part of Navistar.

Following its acquisition, the newly created Scout Motors began working on new fully electric models and after 2 years of development, it has two concepts – the Traveler SUV and Terra truck – to show as future products.

Scout Motors’ first priority was to honour the spirit of the original Scout vehicles. The new Traveler and Scout Terra take inspiration from the design and utility of the original Scout models that were manufactured from 1961 to 1980.

Significantly, both models will have electrified drivetrains – either fully electric or with a petrol engine range-extender system – so customers will have a choice to suit their operating conditions. The fully electric models are expected to be able to go up to 560 kms on a fully charged battery pack, while the range-extended variant should offer over 800 kms of range.

800V architecture, with up to 350 kW charging capability, will refill the battery within short periods and bi-directional charging will allow for the battery pack to serve as a mobile powerbank to power external devices or equipment.

Both drivetrains are designed to be flexibly integrated into the platform and into the production process, allowing Scout Motors to respond to market demand as it changes.

To have the all-terrain capability that the original Scouts possessed, the new vehicles will have 4-wheel drive provided by an electric drive unit on each axle. With around 1,350 Nm of torque, the fully electric Scout vehicles are targeted to climb 100% slopes percent grades and accelerate 0 – 60 mph (96 km/h) in 3.5 seconds.

Both vehicles will use an all-new and proprietary body-on-chassis frame platform with a solid rear axle. The platform is projected to handle around 900 kgs  of payload. With 35-inch tyres, they will have over 300 mm of ground clearance and cross water that is 900 mm deep.

The Traveler and Terra are designed to be versatile ‘multitools’ on wheels with durable materials and flexible cargo areas throughout. Both vehicles will include a front cargo compartment capable of fitting golf clubs, a gym bag, and a small cooler, as well as powering multiple devices with 120V and USB-C power outlets.

The Terra will feature a 1.65-metre pick-up bed with two 120V and one 240V power outlets that can provide electricity for a variety of equipment, including home appliances. In addition, the Traveler’s  split tailgate offers easy access to cargo and protection from the elements when opened, shielding both passengers and cargo from the weather.

Scout vehicle owners will be able to personalize their vehicles for a variety of uses with a range of accessories the company will offer as well. Powered accessories will be integrated into the Scout user experience, assigned to switches and, in some cases, controlled by the driver’s mobile app, so installation, set-up, and control are easy.

Multiple choices of roof types will offer an open-air experience complemented by the near-silent electric operation. The Cabana Top, which will be one of the largest roof openings of any SUV, will connect drivers and passengers to the sky or if they prefer the expansive overhead views with protection and privacy, the optional glass roof can be specified.

Entry-level versions are set to be priced from US$50,000 – $60,000 (RM223,600 – RM267,800) and the Volkswagen subsidiary is planning to sell directly to customers instead of using the traditional dealership model. Initial production at a new US$2 billion factory is planned to start in April 2027.

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