Scout Motors has officially revealed two production-intent concept vehicles, the Scout Traveler SUV and Scout Terra truck, signaling a new chapter for the historic brand. These vehicles were designed in Michigan and will be manufactured in South Carolina, contributing to the creation of over 4,000 jobs in the United States. The new models pay homage to the original Scout vehicles, which were built by International Harvester between 1961 and 1980, while introducing modern advancements in electric vehicle technology and off-road capability.
Both the Scout Traveler SUV and Scout Terra truck are built on a newly developed body-on-frame chassis with a solid rear axle, designed to provide significant off-road performance. The Terra truck is expected to tow more than 10,000 pounds, while the Traveler SUV is projected to tow over 7,000 pounds. Both vehicles will offer nearly 2,000 pounds of payload capacity, making them versatile options for a variety of tasks. Other off-road features include mechanical lockers for both the front and rear axles, 35-inch tire compatibility, more than one foot of ground clearance, and the ability to ford up to three feet of water. Additional off-road enhancements include a front sway bar disconnect and robust suspension systems to ensure capability on a wide range of terrains.
Scout Motors will offer these vehicles in fully electric and range-extended versions, allowing customers to choose the powertrain that best suits their needs. The fully electric models are anticipated to provide up to 350 miles of range on a single charge, while the range-extended models will feature a small gas-powered generator that can extend the range to more than 500 miles. This flexibility is intended to meet the needs of customers who want to embrace electrification while maintaining the range confidence traditionally associated with internal combustion engine vehicles. Both versions will include four-wheel drive, achieved through electric drive units mounted on each axle, and are projected to produce up to 1,000 lb.-ft. of torque. This level of torque will allow the vehicles to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in as little as 3.5 seconds. Charging capabilities will include the North American Charging Standard (NACS) and 800-volt architecture, with the ability to support charging at up to 350 kilowatts. The vehicles will also feature bi-directional charging, enabling them to power other devices or even provide electricity back to the grid in certain situations.
The interior of both the Scout Traveler SUV and the Scout Terra truck has been designed with practicality and durability in mind. Physical controls, such as real knobs, switches, and mechanical door handles, are used throughout the cabin to enhance the tactile experience for drivers. The vehicles will also feature high-resolution touchscreens, part of a modern software architecture that supports over-the-air (OTA) updates and remote diagnostics. This software system will provide customers with a continuously improving in-vehicle experience, while also allowing for the personalization of various functions. The Scout Traveler SUV will come with a multifunctional center console for enhanced interior storage, while the Scout Terra truck will offer an optional front row bench seat to maximize passenger capacity. Both models include spacious cargo areas, with the Terra truck featuring a 5.5-foot bed equipped with two 120V power outlets and one 240V outlet, suitable for running heavy-duty equipment or providing backup power during outages.
In terms of design, the new Scout vehicles retain some of the visual cues of their predecessors, while incorporating modern, rugged styling. The exterior features bold proportions, with short front overhangs and a visually heavy cabin set toward the rear of the vehicle. Protective elements, such as bumpers and rockers, are separated from the body, underscoring the vehicles’ off-road durability. The design also includes daytime running lights (DRLs) that form clean, horizontal lines around the front and rear of the vehicles, drawing inspiration from the original Scout II SUV’s side markers. The Scout logo is positioned subtly on the right side of the vehicles, reminiscent of a signature on a piece of artwork.
Scout Motors aims to sell these vehicles directly to consumers through its own sales and service network. This approach is designed to create a seamless, transparent customer experience, from ordering to delivery and service. The direct-to-consumer model will allow Scout Motors to build strong relationships with its customers, ensuring clear communication and efficient service. The company also plans to build dedicated retail spaces, called Scout Workshops, where customers can engage with the vehicles in person, test drive them, and receive hands-on service. Approximately 80 percent of vehicle repairs are expected to be manageable outside of a Scout Workshop, allowing for greater flexibility in service options.
Prices for the entry-level models are expected to start at approximately $50,000 with available incentives, with retail prices expected to be under $60,000. Scout Motors will begin accepting reservations for the Scout Traveler SUV and Scout Terra truck at 6:30 p.m. EDT on October 24, 2024. A refundable reservation fee of $100 will allow customers to reserve their vehicle and secure their place in line. Production of the Scout Traveler and Terra is targeted to begin in 2027 at the new Scout Motors production facility near Columbia, South Carolina.
