Scout focuses on nostalgia and techno

After digging into your memories, the name probably rings a bell. The Scout, whose existence stretched from 1961 to 1980, established its notoriety on its robustness and its rudimentary appearance designed by the International Harvester brand to better explore the backcountry. Volkswagen is now allowing it to make a comeback as a whole, electrified brand. Here are the first two works presented almost three years before they were put into production.

New era, new morals therefore, but same spirit. At least that’s what emerges from the first brief portrait of the “new Scout” to which we were recently treated. As a teaser, the first images of the Terra pickup truck and Traveler SUV have been released to take a first look at these eye-catching neo-retro cubic designs. The recipe is very similar to the infancy of Rivian, in which Volkswagen has a stake, but the technical approach still differs.

Benefiting from great autonomy compared to the German giant, Scout has developed its own ladder platform with a rigid rear axle in Michigan. The Terra can tow 4,535 kg (10,000 lb) and the Traveler is limited to 3,175 kg (7,000 lb) towing capacity. Depending on options, these vehicles can have ground clearance of up to 30 cm and can navigate in 91 cm of water. A disconnectable stabilizer bar and electronically locking differentials complete the off-road paraphernalia.

Lots of electric and a little gasoline

These creations also have essential technical advances to make them competitive in the electrical sphere. Scout will offer them with a duo of electric motors producing up to 1000 lb-ft of torque, which ensures 0-97 km/h in 3.5 seconds. The fully electric versions will have an estimated range of 563 km while the liveries equipped with a gasoline generator will increase the range to around 805 km. The 800 V architecture will also allow charging power of up to 350 kW, which will reduce the time spent at fast terminals. Bi-directional charging will also be integrated.

Inspired by Tesla, among others, Scout will sell its models without an intermediary at a starting price targeted at less than US$60,000, or approximately CAN$83,000 – Canadian prices have not yet been communicated. Distance selling will be possible, while stores will provide direct contact with customers. The manufacturer is aiming to put the Terra and Traveler into production from 2027, but Canadian customers can already reserve their vehicle on the American brand’s website.