Scout Motors, a newcomer to the electric vehicle market, unveiled two all-electric models on Thursday, designed to appeal to American consumers by blending modern and rugged elements in their styling, which deliberately shuns digital minimalism for a more mechanical aesthetic.
The catch? The corporation may also offer alternative configurations of its all-electric Scout Traveler SUV and Scout Terra Truck, which can be equipped with an integrated gas-powered generator known as Harvester – a homage to the classic Worldwide Harvester Scout of the 1960s.
If the concept of an electric-gas hybrid generator sounds familiar, it’s likely because you’ve heard of similar technologies like dual-fuel engines or hybrid powertrains that combine the benefits of electricity and gas.
The Stellantis brand’s RAM model was unveiled last year, featuring a battery-electric truck equipped with a 3.6-litre V6 engine and an on-board 130-kilowatt generator that, when combined, enables a focused range of approximately 690 miles.
The Scout EVs, comprising a truck and an SUV, are expected to hit the market in 2027. The newly released model, introduced just two years ago, was originally intended to roll out vehicles by 2026. Once they transition into manufacturing, the automobiles will feature a robust body-on-frame chassis, a sturdy rear axle, and mechanical lockers at both the front and rear, coupled with a powertrain capable of delivering an impressive 1,000 pound-feet of torque and accelerating from zero to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds (in select trims).
Scout’s strategy centers on harnessing the appeal of technologically advanced, eco-friendly electric vehicles that seamlessly blend off-road capability with on-road efficiency, all while paying homage to a bygone era through tangible interfaces like buttons and switches. While many cars feature buttons on their consoles, they also often come equipped with a centrally located touchscreen interface.
During the unveil, Scout Motors President and CEO Scott Keogh displayed an acute awareness of the automotive industry’s complexities, making it a point to highlight the significance of this new model, which pays homage to the original Worldwide Harvester Scout, launched in the early 1960s, that revolutionized the market with its innovative design.
He observed that these events were undoubtedly sophisticated during a livestreamed gathering. “Companies face mounting pressures: labour unrest, apprehension over electric vehicle shifts, infrastructure concerns, geo-political uncertainty, inflationary pressures, supply chain disruptions, software implementation hurdles, digital trust issues, and the need to deliver a strong return on investment.”
According to Keogh, the introduction of two new Scout Electric Vehicles (EVs) will effectively bypass existing hurdles.
Nuts and bolts
The corporation announced on Thursday that its new electric vehicles are expected to offer up to 350 miles of range. The electric vehicles (EVs) will also come equipped with Tesla’s North American charging network. In a surprising move, Scout may offer extended-range options, providing a safe haven of up to 500 miles or more, courtesy of a reliable built-in gas-powered generator.
Noting the peculiarity of the Harvester, Keogh swiftly deduced that this gas-powered generator, despite its moniker, was fundamentally a Scout.
“All that potential, functionality, and recognition remain intact when you opt for the varying extender,” he noted, emphasizing that it’s still an electric vehicle. You’ll retain the frunk, as well as every aspect of the packaging, while the battery powers each axle; it’s only logical that the engine charges the battery. This offers expert insight into electric vehicles and their generators.
He further emphasized that the Harvester model’s future-proofing capabilities are crucial in today’s fast-paced environment, underscoring their significance for his organization.
The EV platform is designed to accommodate up to 35-inch tires, boasting generous ground clearance of over two feet and impressive water fording capabilities of nearly three toes. Additionally, it features an entrance sway bar disconnect, as well as front and rear mechanical lockers, to enhance traction and maneuverability. Aggressive approach and departure angles are also integrated into the design, paired with sturdy suspension options to ensure a smooth ride despite challenging terrain, according to Scout. Those rugged particulars form part of Scout’s bold messaging strategy, designed to attract discerning clients.
The corporation also noted that the Terra pickup truck will boast a towing capacity exceeding 10,000 kilograms, while the Traveler SUV will be capable of handling a load of approximately 7,000 kilograms. The way this phrase can impact the cars’ performance varies significantly?
Each Electric Vehicle (EV) features a cutting-edge zonal architecture at its core, designed to facilitate seamless over-the-air software updates and remote diagnostic capabilities. Despite establishing a dedicated subsidiary, Cariad, with over 6,000 employees, Volkswagen’s parent company has faced challenges in integrating software-driven efficiency into its vehicles.
Recently, the Volkswagen Group committed to investing $1 billion in an electric vehicle startup as part of a comprehensive partnership that could potentially expand up to $5 billion. It’s conceivable that the three-party partnership may extend a software-related helping hand to Scout, if so desired.
The interior design seamlessly blends modern nuances with timeless elegance, creating a unique harmony that is at once fresh and familiar. The touchscreen serves as both the primary interface and central hub, while the toggles and knobs controlling the air-conditioning and heating systems reside conveniently below, within easy reach. The dashboard features an unusual combination of instruments, with possibly even a compass situated near the rearview mirror and mounted on the ceiling. The agricultural heritage of Worldwide Harvester is proudly preserved through the deliberate decision to forsake the complex center console in favor of an inviting front-row bench seat, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among passengers.
“People remember how to perform everyday tasks like opening an automobile door, flipping a switch, or pulling a lever,” Keogh said, subtly criticizing some modern electric vehicles by emphasizing the importance of intuitive design and user control.
Scout Traveler and Terra fashion models are available for purchase at a price point below $60,000. Famous scouts may procure these costs at a relatively low cost of $50,000, with attractive incentives available. Provided the Inflation Reduction Act’s incentives remain intact. As Scout prepares to capitalize on these opportunities, it can leverage its ability to design vehicles in Michigan while constructing them at its newly built facility capable of producing up to 200,000 electric vehicles annually in South Carolina.
Scout is considering a bold move by directly marketing its electric vehicles (EVs) to customers, potentially leading some buyers to bypass traditional Volkswagen dealerships. The company invites prospective customers to reserve a Scout Traveler SUV or Scout Terra truck for a fully refundable deposit of $100.
