Summary
- Scout Motors CEO reveals new details about upcoming electric and range extender trucks
- Pure EV will be quicker, while EREV will have more combined range and better for towing
- Traveller SUV more popular among early reservation holders than Terra pickup
- Scout Motors to offer pure electric and extended-range versions of vehicles
- The two versions will have different battery chemistries and power outputs
Article
Scout Motors Divulges New Details About Upcoming Electric Trucks
The CEO of Scout Motors recently shared exciting information about the brand’s new electric vehicles, revealing that there will be both pure electric (EV) and extended-range (EREV) options available for consumers. The brand, which is being revived under Volkswagen, aims to offer vehicles that cater to different needs and preferences. One of the main distinctions between the two powertrains is that the pure EV will be quicker, while the EREV will offer more combined range and be better suited for towing purposes. This strategic move by Scout Motors reflects a commitment to providing diverse options to meet the varying needs of electric vehicle drivers.
Key Details Revealed About Scout’s Electric Powertrains
During a recent podcast appearance, Scout’s president and CEO, Scott Keogh, shared important details about the brand’s upcoming EV and EREV powertrains. The EREV, known as the “Harvester,” will feature a four-cylinder engine acting as a generator, potentially sourced from Volkswagen. This engine, without a turbocharger, will play a crucial role in extending the vehicle’s range. Additionally, the Harvester will have a battery capacity of around 60-70 kilowatt-hours, significantly smaller than the planned battery capacity of the pure EV variant, which is aimed at 120-130 kWh. These technical specifications shed light on the distinct characteristics of the EV and EREV versions of Scout’s vehicles.
Differences Between EV and EREV Variants
The EREV will boast a battery-only range of approximately 150 miles, which will extend to over 500 miles when combined with a full tank of fuel. Keogh hinted at a unique air intake and cooling solution for the EREV due to the engine being placed in front of the rear axle. This innovative design choice will allow for more efficient performance and functionality of the vehicle. Both the EV and EREV variants will have similar interior packaging, maintaining consistent capacity despite differences in powertrains. The EV variant is projected to have a range of 350 miles on a single charge and superior acceleration performance compared to the EREV.
Battery Technologies and Performance
Scout Motors plans to equip the EV and EREV variants with different battery chemistries, affecting the vehicles’ power outputs and performance capabilities. The EREV may utilize a more cost-effective battery chemistry to optimize efficiency, while the EV will feature a higher energy density battery for enhanced range and performance. These strategic choices align with Scout Motors’ goal of offering vehicles tailored to distinct consumer needs and preferences. Both variants will share a 2,000-pound payload capacity, with tow ratings that cater to different usage scenarios, appealing to a wide range of drivers.
Market Demand and Strategic Planning
Scout Motors’ decision to offer both EV and EREV variants reflects an understanding of varied consumer needs, with over 50% of early reservations being for the range extender model. The popularity of the Traveller SUV body among reservation holders further emphasizes the importance of providing diverse vehicle options to cater to consumer preferences. Scout’s strategic localization of 85% of its supply chain in the United States reduces dependency on foreign imports and ensures that its upcoming vehicles qualify for the federal EV tax credit. However, potential policy changes under the current administration could impact these incentives.
Future Production and Distribution Plans
Scout Motors plans to begin production of the Traveller and Terra vehicles in South Carolina by the fourth quarter of 2027, with a planned annual capacity of 200,000 vehicles. The brand aims to adopt a direct-to-customer sales model, bypassing traditional dealer networks, to enhance customer experience and streamline the buying process. Despite facing potential legal challenges from dealers, Scout remains committed to its innovative vision for the future of electric vehicles in the U.S. market. By offering diverse powertrain options, prioritizing local supply chains, and focusing on direct sales, Scout Motors is poised to make a significant impact on the electric vehicle industry.
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