Summary
- Volkswagen is reviving the Scout brand for a new line of off-road-focused electric vehicles
- The first offerings will be an electric SUV and pickup duo built specifically for the American market
- Both vehicles will have a body-on-frame construction with a dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain
- Scout vehicles are expected to have a retro-inspired design blending classic elements with modern technology
- The starting price for the electric trucks will be above $40,000 and they will be eligible for a $7,500 federal tax credit. The first prototypes of the vehicles will be produced in 2025 before full production in 2026, with the SUV being released first.
Article
Volkswagen has decided to revive the Scout brand, made famous by the International Harvester Scout, for a new line of off-road-focused electric vehicles set to enter production in 2026. The company’s first offerings will be an electric SUV and pickup duo that aim to blend retro-inspired design, go-anywhere capability, and VW’s EV technology specifically for the American market. Both vehicles will be fully electric, with no rumors of a possible range extender powertrain. The powertrain for these vehicles may include an extended-range EV option to cater to those who need extra towing capabilities.
The new Scout vehicles will prioritize off-road ability and usability over opulent luxury, reflected in their pricing. These electric vehicles are expected to undercut most rivals and provide rugged, truck-like performance compared to unibody EVs. The platform underpinning the Scout vehicles will be unique, with a body-on-frame construction setting it apart from other electric VW models. The vehicles will likely feature dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrains as standard, providing ample power for off-road adventures while still utilizing parts shared with other VW group vehicles.
It is anticipated that these electric Scout vehicles will produce at least 300 horsepower, given their dual-motor setup. The battery capacity and range of the vehicles have not been disclosed yet, but a competitive range of around 300 miles per charge is expected. The charging capabilities of the Scout vehicles are also unknown, but the possibility of charging speeds up to 350 kW is hinted at, depending on the voltage platform used. The design of the Scout SUV and pickup will draw inspiration from classic International Harvester Scout vehicles, with a retro-inspired theme reflected in their short front overhangs and rugged appearance.
The starting price for the Scout electric trucks is expected to be above $40,000, with the SUV priced closer to $45,000 and the pickup around $55,000. Being built in America, these vehicles should qualify for the $7,500 federal tax credit, making them more affordable for consumers. Scout has trademarked several names, such as “Scout Reaper,” “Scout Traveler,” and “Scout Hauler,” hinting at potential future models. The two new Scout vehicles will be revealed to the public on October 24, with production set to begin in 2026 at a new factory in Blythewood, South Carolina. The SUV will be the first to enter production, followed by the pickup, although the timeline for their release is still unknown.
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