Scout Motors, Volkswagen’s new electric off-roader brand, has previewed its initial concept. The brand was part of VW’s ownership of Navistar, assigned to design, develop, and build electric off-roaders for American customers.
According to InsideEVs, the launch is a little late because Scout Motors’ initial products are anticipated to reach the market in 2026.
Scott Keogh, Scout Motors’ CEO, stated:
“The Scout enthusiast community has preserved Scout heritage. Since 1980, these owners and fans have kept Scout alive. We’re excited to be a part of the community and want to foster interaction and exchange as we reimagine this American icon.
“We started this forum to nurture an open dialogue with our community members, to hear what they expect in all-new Scout vehicles, and to build a central location where past, present, and future Scout enthusiasts can come together as one,” Scott added.
Scout’s teaser of the SUV concept
Scout plans to launch an SUV and a corresponding pickup truck anticipated for 2026. On Monday, a teaser image for the SUV concept was revealed by Scout.
The teased concept is undoubtedly drawn from the iconic International Harvester Scout from the 1960s. Notably, the Harvester Scout was a direct competitor similar to the Ford Bronco during that time. Therefore, it is safe to assume that this concept may have a Bronco-like feel.
As shown in the teaser, the SUV seems to have a large amount of ground clearance. Additionally, it appears to be mounted on tires designed for off-road use.
However, whether these will be included in the vehicle as standard equipment is unknown.
Testing schedule
The planned SUV and the pickup truck are scheduled to undergo testing sometime in 2023.
It is worth noting that the company is just new in the automotive industry. Therefore, it might operate differently from its parent company, Volkswagen.
For reference, VW typically reveals almost finished concepts a year before a car is officially unveiled. However, Scout can decide to take a different approach to promote the brand.
Volkswagen AG CEO Herbert Diess stated:
“After Volkswagen’s successful turnaround in the US, we are now taking the opportunity to further strengthen our position in one of the most significant growth markets for EVs.”
He added:
“Electrification provides a historic opportunity to enter the highly attractive pickup and R-SUV segment as a Group, underscoring our ambition to become a relevant player in the US market.”
When Volkswagen acquired the heavy truck company Navistar, it also acquired the rights to the Scout badge. In retrospect, it was established in 1986 to take over from International Harvester.
