Scout Motors Begins Work on Groundbreaking US Electric Truck Factory

Feb 20, 2024 08:43 PM EST

RED PICK UP TRUCK PARKED NEAR WALL — (Photo : PEXELS/Andrea Piacquadio)

Scout Motors, a revived truck brand, achieved a significant milestone by commencing the construction of its future US center for electric truck production in Blythewood, South Carolina. Stemming from classic off-road vehicles built by International Harvester in the '60s and '70s, Scout Motors garnered a relatively small yet dedicated fanbase despite producing only about 530,000 Scout trucks during its 20-year run as an early competitor to Jeep.

Scout Motors US Electrick Truck Factory

This plan is expected to give 4,000 employment and manufacture 200,000 cars yearly. Additionally, it is expected to have a stunning $4.2 billion economic impact. Scout Motors' parent company, the Volkswagen Group, sees this mission as more than merely reviving a great American brand; it symbolizes a comprehensive attempt to build automobiles that are tailored to the needs and desires of American consumers.

As reported in EVs InsideEVs Global, the original Scout, an SUV ahead of its time, was produced by the Illinois-based heavy equipment manufacturer International Harvester from 1960 to 1980. It preceded well-known 4x4s such as the Ford Bronco by several years and continues to enjoy significant popularity among off-road enthusiasts and classic car collectors, enduring as a timeless icon in the automotive world.

Following the acquisition of Navistar, the successor company of International Harvester, in 2020, the VW Group gained ownership of the Scout trademark. According to Scott Keogh, former Volkswagen CEO, executives in Germany expressed a desire for a stronger foothold in North America, recognizing the credibility associated with the Scout brand.

As per Electrek, Volkswagen Group aims to leverage this rich legacy and breathe new life into the brand for the modern era of electric vehicles. The Group officially confirmed its plans in 2022 to reintroduce the brand as a fully electric marque, retaining the rugged off-road capabilities that made the original Scouts iconic.

Through a recent collaboration with Magna, renowned for their expertise in producing high-performance electric vehicles for challenging terrains, it's evident that Scout Motors is entering the market with serious intent.

Although only teaser images of Scout's initial two electric models have been revealed, it has been disclosed that these vehicles will be manufactured in the United States. In March 2023, Scout, in conjunction with the Governor of South Carolina, unveiled the Palmetto State as the chosen location for the emerging VW Group brand. Scout has extended its presence in the United States.

It focuses on Novi, Michigan. The design and development of its electric trucks are underway. Additionally, the company is in the process of constructing a new Innovation Center in the vicinity.

Earlier on February 15, Scout marked the beginning of construction for its production facility in South Carolina. Thus, signaling a significant step forward as the company prepares to unveil its electric vehicles later this year.

Scout Motors

As per Gear Patrol, Scout's vehicles do not utilize Volkswagen's MEB electric vehicle platform. Volkswagen introduced an off-road concept utilizing the MEB platform with the ID. Buggy concept. However, Scout has affirmed that its vehicle will not be based on the MEB or any existing Volkswagen EV platform. Instead, it will utilize a newly developed all-electric platform.

The new Scout platform has been designed to prioritize aspects such as ground clearance, approach angles, sturdy axles, payload capacity, and electric range, aiming to deliver genuine off-road capability.

Gear Patrol shared Keogh's statement to Automotive News, Scout's platform may have potential applications within the broader VW family. This platform could potentially serve as an option if Audi decides to pursue an electric pickup.