Scout Motors, a name once associated with the advent of the sport utility vehicle, is making a comeback as an all-electric brand under the Volkswagen Group. The company unveiled its first vehicles today: the Terra truck and the Traveler SUV, both featuring a body-on-frame design based on a new electric vehicle platform developed specifically for Scout. Anticipated prices for both models could start below $60,000 when they enter production in 2027.
Scout aims to differentiate itself in a crowded market by combining nostalgic design elements with modern technology. Scout CEO Scott Keogh described the brand’s mission as blending heritage with innovative engineering, coining the term “Connection Machine” to emphasize the relationship between the driver and the vehicle.
The specifications for both models are impressive, designed for off-road performance with a body-on-frame chassis, mechanical lockers for traction, and significant towing capabilities—over 7,000 pounds for the Traveler and over 10,000 pounds for the Terra, along with a payload capacity of nearly 2,000 pounds. The vehicles are projected to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in an impressive 3.5 seconds, thanks to an estimated 1,000 pound-feet of torque from the four-wheel-drive system.
Additional features include modern vehicle software with over-the-air update capabilities, bidirectional charging, and a range of up to 350 miles for one electric trim, with an extended range variant offering over 500 miles using a gas-powered range extender. Design elements also aim to evoke a tactile connection, moving away from minimalist interiors laden with touchscreens, favoring mechanical controls and bench seating.
Keogh’s vision is focused on creating a vehicle that feels connected and engaging for drivers, blending traditional automotive design with modern technology. The zonal architecture of the vehicles will allow for future updates and efficiency in manufacturing, distinguishing Scout from other automakers reliant on older electrical systems.
Interestingly, Scout is developing its own proprietary body-on-frame platform rather than using Volkswagen’s existing modular electric vehicle platform. This decision highlights the company’s intention to maintain a unique identity while still leveraging some parent company components for performance.
To address range concerns typical of electric trucks, Scout opts for a small gas generator that charges the battery rather than functioning as a hybrid. This strategy aims to reassure potential buyers while keeping electrification a priority.
The design of the Terra and Traveler draws inspiration from several brands while retaining the classic aesthetic reminiscent of the original Scouts from the 1960s and 70s. Keogh emphasized the goal of creating a distinct design that blends innovative and familiar elements without veering into overly radical territory.