### Scout Motors: Resurrecting a Legendary American Brand with Electric Off-Road Vehicles
In an exhilarating turn of events for car aficionados, Scout Motors, a name that once evoked images of tough off-road vehicles, is set to make its return. Previously part of International Harvester, Scout is now owned by Volkswagen Group. The brand’s resurgence revolves around two brand-new electric vehicles (EVs): the **Terra pickup truck** and the **Traveler SUV**, both of which are slated for production in South Carolina beginning in 2027.
#### A Fresh Chapter for Scout Motors
Scout Motors boasts a storied past, celebrated for its robust and adaptable off-road vehicles that gained popularity during the 1960s and 1970s. Now, Volkswagen is reinvigorating the brand, aiming to tap into the expanding demand for electric off-road vehicles. The Terra and Traveler will be constructed on an entirely new, clean-sheet platform purposefully designed for Scout. This platform, created in Michigan, incorporates **body-on-frame construction** and will accommodate both **purely electric** and **range-extended powertrains**.
The choice to manufacture these vehicles in the United States carries significant weight. The newly established Scout factory, situated north of Columbia, South Carolina, is expected to generate thousands of jobs and bolster the local economy. Scout Motors CEO Scott Keogh highlighted the significance of revitalizing this iconic American label, declaring, “We couldn’t be prouder to revitalize this iconic American brand, create thousands of American jobs, and put American ingenuity back to work.”
#### The Terra Pickup and Traveler SUV: Essential Features
Both the Terra pickup and Traveler SUV are crafted with off-road fans in mind, while also providing family-oriented flexibility. Here’s a more detailed look at what these vehicles will present:
1. **Pricing and Availability**:
– Scout has revealed that the starting price for both models will be “under $60,000,” with entry-level options potentially available for as low as $50,000 with applicable incentives.
– Manufacturing is expected to commence in 2027, with pre-orders already open. A refundable $100 deposit allows customers to secure their vehicle, choosing between the Terra and Traveler, as well as deciding on a battery-electric vehicle (BEV) or a range-extended model.
2. **Electric Powertrain**:
– The vehicles will be equipped with an **800-volt electric powertrain**, capable of **fast charging at up to 350 kW** utilizing the **NACS plug**. This high-voltage architecture allows for swift charging, enhancing the ease of long-distance trips.
– Both the Terra and Traveler will support **bidirectional charging**, allowing owners to harness their vehicles as mobile power sources.
– The Terra pickup will feature two 120V and one 240V AC outlets in its 5.5-foot truck bed, making it well-suited for outdoor escapades or job site utilization.
3. **Range and Performance**:
– The **pure battery-electric versions** of the Terra and Traveler will provide a range of up to **350 miles** (563 km) on a full charge.
– For those desiring even more voyage capability, Scout will supply **range-extended versions** that employ a gasoline generator to recharge the battery. These configurations will be capable of reaching **500 miles** (805 km), perfect for extended journeys.
– Off-road prowess is a focal point, featuring over a **foot of ground clearance** and the capacity to **ford water up to 3 feet deep**. Both models will include **locking mechanical differentials** on the front and rear axles, with the rear axle featuring a **live axle design**. Moreover, the front anti-roll bar can be disengaged for enhanced wheel travel, and the vehicles will accommodate **35-inch all-terrain tires**.
4. **Towing and Payload Capacity**:
– The Terra pickup will deliver an impressive **10,000 lbs** (4,536 kg) of towing capability, while the Traveler SUV will provide **7,000 lbs** (3,175 kg).
– Both models will boast a **payload capacity of up to 2,000 lbs** (907 kg), making them well-equipped for both work and leisure activities.
#### Design and Interior
The design of the Terra and Traveler offers a contemporary interpretation of the classic Scout aesthetic, emphasizing simplicity and practical use. The **horizontal daylight running lights** on both vehicles pay homage to the original Scout II SUV, offering a nostalgic touch for brand enthusiasts.
Inside, the vehicles will feature a blend of modern technology and classic design details. Notably, Scout will provide an **optional front bench seat**, a feature that has nearly vanished from contemporary vehicles. This harkens back to the era when bench seating was common in trucks and SUVs, offering a distinct appeal for those who value traditional automotive design.
The interior will also include a **modern zon
