Scout Motors Inc. chose Southall Farm and Inn in Franklin, Tennessee, as the venue to announce the introduction of two new electric vehicles: the Scout Terra truck and the Scout Traveler SUV.
With financial backing from the German manufacturer Volkswagen Group, which acquired the Scout brand through its purchase of American truck maker Navistar International in 2021, Scout Motors is poised to make its mark. Chris Benjamin, the brand’s Chief Design Officer, expressed, “Scout is about respect, community and trust,” during a three-day reveal attended by 300 guests. “Our foremost goal is to honor the essence of the original Scout vehicles.”
The design and functionality of these new vehicles draw heavily from the original Scouts produced by International Harvester from the 1960s until the 1980s. “They were ahead of their time, pioneering the SUV and truck segments of the industry,” remarked Benjamin.
Both vehicles are designed and engineered in Michigan, with production set to take place in Blythewood, South Carolina. “Scout Motors is creating over 4,000 American jobs,” Benjamin noted.
Scott Keogh, President and CEO of Scout Motors, shared in February during a groundbreaking ceremony, “After two years of development, we are thrilled to unveil the next generation of Scout vehicles to the public. The foundational idea — rugged and adaptable vehicles designed for both off-road adventures and family use — remains crucial. We take immense pride in rejuvenating this iconic American brand, generating thousands of American jobs, and fostering American innovation.”
Scout International boasts a rich history and legacy. Now, more than four decades later, the new venture Scout Motors aims to create a versatile, bold icon that will serve as a reliable companion for automotive enthusiasts. The two latest electric vehicles are tailored for work, recreational activities, camping, and towing.
Each vehicle has unique features, with their front and rear profiles providing a striking visual appeal. The Scout Traveler features a distinctive spare tire at the back. When discussing the Terra truck, Benjamin highlighted its design, stating, “The Day Light Opening (DLO) reflects the soft shoulders from the 1980s. A clean horizontal line encircles the vehicles, resembling the equator.”
Fun design elements for the truck include grab bars for off-road excursions. The Scout Terra truck also boasts ghost lighting at the rear and a robust hood that contributes to its assertive stance. A tow hook comes with a specially designed hole for a climbing rope. “The clamps on the hood allow owners to secure items when necessary,” stated Benjamin. “It’s a genuine truck, ready for action, featuring a spacious 5.5-foot bed ideal for carrying cargo or lounging.”
Owners can customize their Scout with a comprehensive range of accessories, including additional lighting, assist steps, off-road bumpers with recovery points, and a heavy-duty winch.
The exterior colors of these new Scout vehicles offer a modern twist on the shades used in earlier models, while still paying homage to their predecessors. Before ceasing production in 1980, over 500,000 Scouts were produced. The final Scout II that rolled off the assembly line in Fort Wayne, Indiana, was painted a vibrant Tahitian Red. “The Traveler’s color is a contemporary interpretation of that Tahitian Red,” Benjamin explained, noting that this hue is not only reminiscent but also striking and eye-catching.
He added, “The Terra features a cool matte darker blue finish.” This exciting truck still operates as an electric vehicle and includes a front storage area for sports gear, tailgating supplies, tools, and camping essentials. Its body-on-frame construction equips it with a strong rear axle and mechanical lockers at both ends, ensuring robust off-road capabilities.
Expected towing capacities are over 10,000 pounds for the Scout Terra and 7,000 pounds for the Scout Traveler.
The interior color scheme is inspired by the original Scout’s legacy yet modernized to reflect the vehicle’s heritage. The “Clay” interior option features luxurious, supple leather.
“The Terra will offer the option of a center console or a bench seat for those who wish to accommodate more passengers,” Benjamin mentioned. “The bench seat could become a favorite spot for your furry friend.”
“The Scout logo appears to the right, resembling a signature on a piece of artwork rather than a typical vehicle emblem,” Benjamin noted.
Both models feature screens as well as physical knobs and buttons. “Recognizing that many prefer not to adjust temperature or volume via a screen, we’ve designed the knobs on the steering wheel to be substantial and user-friendly,” said Benjamin.
Modern versatile features include a refrigerated cool box tucked beneath the armrests, dual wireless charging docks, rear climate control with heated and vented seating, and a soft knee rest for increased comfort.
“The Terra incorporates hemp wood accents in its interior,” Benjamin added. “It’s aesthetically pleasing, sustainable, and meaningful.” A built-in compass assists drivers while a pull-out tray is designed for holding binoculars. A refrigerated cool box ensures beverages stay chilled during family outings or work on the farm.
As evening descends, ambient lighting enhances the atmosphere for both driver and passengers. “At night, the warm glow from the cabin’s lighting mirrors the ambiance of a campfire,” Benjamin noted.
These electric vehicles are quick, with an estimated 0-60 miles per hour time of just 3.5 seconds.
To address concerns over range, Scout Motors is introducing an optional extended range electric vehicle (EREV) energy system, named Scout Harvester. This proprietary system aims to provide reassurance for drivers while ensuring off-road capabilities.
This compact gasoline engine will charge the vehicle’s high-voltage battery, potentially extending the driving range to more than 500 miles, all while maintaining the electric drive system.
<p“America needs new Scouts now,” Benjamin asserted. Reservations are currently available for those eager to secure one of these bold, iconic electric vehicles, designed with multifunctional spaces ideal for gatherings and socializing.
A $100 deposit will place you in line for an entry model expected to begin at approximately $51,500, with available incentives through Scout Motors.
Image Source: T. Schneider / Shutterstock
