Volkswagen’s Scout Motors has officially unveiled its first electric vehicle (EV) offerings – the Scout Traveler SUV and the Scout Terra pickup truck, both of which are scheduled for release in 2027.
The brand, once an American off-road icon, is making a comeback under Volkswagen. Designed in the US and set for production in South Carolina, the all-electric Traveler SUV and Terra pickup feature a powerful dual-motor setup, delivering an impressive 1,000 lb-ft of torque and estimated 0-60 mph acceleration in just 3.5 seconds.
Both models are built on a body-on-frame chassis, optimized for off-road capability with an independent front suspension, solid rear axle, and significant ground clearance. They’re engineered to handle rough terrain, offering a wading depth of up to 36 inches and compatibility with larger off-road tires for enhanced durability and performance.
In a surprising turn, Scout Motors is also offering an extended-range model with a built-in range extender. This model incorporates a small gasoline engine that functions as a generator to recharge the battery, pushing the range up to 500 miles (804km). Without the range extender, you can expect to get 350 miles (563km) out of a full charge.
The interiors of the Traveler and Terra incorporate soft-touch materials, ample screen space, and bi-directional charging capabilities, which let the vehicles act as power sources for campsites or job sites.
With starting prices expected between US$50,000 and US$60,000, the Scout lineup is competitive, especially with federal incentives potentially lowering costs further. Taking a page out of Tesla’s playbook, Scout is aiming for direct-to-consumer sales rather than using traditional dealerships, providing a more streamlined buying experience.
Production for Scout’s all-electric models is scheduled to begin in South Carolina in 2027, with the plant expected to output 200,000 vehicles annually.
Customers can reserve either the Traveler or the Terra on Scout’s website with a refundable US$100 deposit.
