Summary
- Scout Motors EV brand releasing electric SUV and truck concepts on October 24
- New U.S.-based company Scout Motors developing electric vehicles, with production starting in 2026
- $2 billion plant near Columbia, South Carolina for production, Magna International assisting with development
- Teasers show rugged, brick-like off-road vehicles with modern lighting touches
- Scout SUV targeting $40,000 base price, followed by larger electric truck; unclear if Rivian’s electrical architecture will be used
Article
Scout Motors, a new electric vehicle (EV) brand under Volkswagen Group, is set to unveil its electric SUV and truck concepts on October 24. The new company, a subsidiary of Volkswagen Group, is led by former VW USA CEO Scott Keogh as CEO of Scout Motors. Production of these electric vehicles is scheduled to begin in 2026 at a new plant near Columbia, South Carolina, costing nearly $2 billion. Magna International is collaborating with Scout Motors to develop the vehicles, using a new body-on-frame platform.
The teaser images of the electric SUV and truck have revealed a rugged, off-road vehicle design reminiscent of old Scouts, with modern lighting touches. The vehicles are expected to feature traditional Scout proportions and a ceiling-mounted compass. The first vehicle to be launched will be the SUV, called a “Rugged Utility Vehicle” (RUV), followed by a larger electric truck. The SUV is targeting a base price in the $40,000 range, while the pickup truck is expected to cost slightly more.
Volkswagen Group has invested $5 billion in Rivian to access its electrical architecture for use across its brands. It remains unclear whether the development of the Scout SUV and truck had progressed too far to incorporate Rivian’s zonal electrical architecture. The new Scout Motors electric vehicles aim to blend the rugged, iconic design of old Scouts with modern technology and sustainable electric powertrains. The investment in Scout Motors reflects Volkswagen’s commitment to expanding its electric vehicle lineup and adopting a more sustainable approach to transportation.
The groundbreaking of the Scout EV plant marks a significant step in the development of electric vehicles under the Scout Motors brand. The new plant near Columbia, South Carolina, is expected to become a key facility for producing electric vehicles for the North American market. With production set to begin in 2026, Scout Motors is positioning itself as a major player in the growing EV market, offering consumers a rugged and versatile alternative to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.
The collaboration between Scout Motors and Magna International highlights the importance of partnerships in the development of electric vehicles. By leveraging each other’s expertise and resources, the companies aim to create innovative and high-quality electric vehicles that meet the evolving needs of consumers. The teaser images of the electric SUV and truck suggest that Scout Motors is aiming to appeal to outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers with its rugged design and off-road capabilities.
Overall, the upcoming launch of Scout Motors’ electric SUV and truck concepts represents a significant milestone in Volkswagen Group’s electrification strategy. Through its investment in Scout Motors and partnerships with industry leaders like Magna International, Volkswagen is positioning itself as a leader in the electric vehicle market. The unveiling of the electric SUV and truck concepts on October 24 will showcase Scout Motors’ commitment to innovation, sustainability, and delivering a unique and compelling driving experience for consumers.
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