Volkswagen can finally restart the construction of its new $2 billion Scout Motors electric vehicle factory in South Carolina after federal regulators released the necessary permits.
According to the South Carolina Daily Gazette, the US Army Corps of Engineers finally gave the green light for the continuation of the project’s construction after environmental issues delayed it last year.
Delay caused by environmental concerns
In hindsight, Scout Motors decided to suspend the construction of the new South Carolinian factory in early 2023 due to environmental groups’ concerns as the VW subsidiary waited for the Corps’ permit.
The environmental concerns associated with the new factory are unsurprising, considering its potential to affect over 100-acre wetlands and 7-mile streams on the 1,100-acre property. According to the project oppositions, filling in wetlands and creeks in a large area can cause flooding downstream as the wetlands can no longer absorb water and slow down runoff.
Approval
In a significant development, the electric automaker’s proposal to compensate for the wetlands and streams affected by the new factory was approved by the Corps on Friday evening.
For context, Scout Motors plans to back the protection of 4,902 acres of wetlands near Congaree National Park and 155 acres on Shelton Island. It will also support the rehabilitation of a 19-mile stream in Sumter National Forest.
“With this permit now in hand, we are excited to continue moving forward with our plans to construct a state-of-the-art facility in South Carolina, where we will reimagine the iconic Scout brand and hire thousands of South Carolinians to craft the next generation of all-electric trucks and rugged SUVs. We will continue to provide regular updates and information to our local community around Blythewood as our operations progress.”
Scout spokesman said in a statement
About the upcoming factory
The new electric vehicle assembly factory for Scout Motors’ upcoming models will create about 4,000 job opportunities for South Carolinians in the Midlands.
It has a strategic location, considering its proximity to talent hotspots in Charleston, Charlotte, Greenville, and Atlanta.
The new factory will house the production of Scout Motors’ next-gen electric trucks and rugged SUVs.
It is expected to eventually hit a maximum annual production capacity of more than 200,000 units.
Scout Motors aims to officially start electric vehicle production at the new factory by the end of 2026.
