All-New Scout Traveler, Terra Ready to Take on Rivian and More

International Harvester originally sold the Scout from 1961 to 1980. Volkswagen AG acquired the brand in 2020 and later gave birth to Scout Motors, with plans to launch a fully electric SUV and pickup.

The Traveler and Terra, as they are respectively called, draw inspiration from their decades-old forebearer not only in terms of styling but also construction and functionality. They both ride on a body-on-frame architecture and feature a solid rear axle for more robust towing and superior off-road capability.

• Also: Here’s Why VW Chose Scout for its New EV Truck Brand
• Also: Volkswagen to Revive Scout Name for EV Pickup, SUV in North America

The Numbers

Using an 800V electric system, the two new EVs from Scout Motors can charge at up to 350 kW and provide an estimated 350 miles (563 km) of range. Output is not specified yet, but the dual motors are said to generate a combined 1,000 lb-ft of torque and enable 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) sprints in just 3.5 seconds.

The platform is projected to deliver more than 10,000 lbs of towing on the Terra truck, over 7,000 lbs of towing on the Traveler SUV and nearly 2,000 lbs of payload on both models. The Terra’s cargo bed is 5.5 feet long and offers an underbody spare tire carrier for sizes up to 33 inches or an optional in-bed tire carrier for 35-inch all-terrain tires.

In addition, the platform is intended to offer up to 35-inch tires, over one foot (30 cm) of ground clearance, nearly 3 feet (90 cm) of water fording capability, a front sway bar disconnect, front and rear mechanical lockers, competitive approach and departure angles (to be specified later), and robust suspension options.

“Scout vehicles are multiuse tools which will allow Scout Motors customers to accomplish many things. They are designed for the makers, doers, and everyday explorers,” the company said.

Time-Traveling Design

The bold and rugged Scout Traveler and Terra were designed with a mix of classic and modern features. They adopt a very short front overhang and long dash-to-axle without add-on cladding or other adornments. The bumpers and rockers are separated from the body as protective elements. The black masks on the front and rear are a nod to Scout heritage and are proudly vertical, while the front and rear daytime running lamps are drawn in one line that sweeps around the vehicles like the equator sweeps around the earth.

Inside, the instrument panel is defined by a bold upper brow and deep undercut reminiscent of the original Scout II, with a lower bar that defines the horizontality of the interior layout and frames the screens in between. The centre display (size unspecified) is complemented by a bank of toggle switches and knobs for easy use of the climate controls.

“A Scout vehicle should always be a helpful companion,” Chief Design Officer Chris Benjamin explained. “It should always enable the customer to do the things they want to do and make their experience easier, better, faster.”

Consequently, the pickup bed offers dual 120V power outlets and one 240V power outlet, while multiple 120V and USB-C outlets can be found in the cabin of both vehicles. Multiple roof types are available, too, including a Cabana Top featuring one of the largest roof openings of any SUV for a unique open-air experience on demand, as well as a glass roof providing expansive sky views with the privacy and thermal benefits of a powered shade.

Oh, and get this: Traveler and Terra customers can choose to have a multifunctional centre console or a bench seat in the front row.

Range-Extending Harvester

In an unexpected but wise move, Scout Motors will also offer an optional extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) energy system called Harvester—basically a gasoline engine serving as a generator. The company failed to provide the specs but hinted at a maximum range of more than 500 miles (805 km).

Now, how much will these Rivian fighters cost? Both the Traveler and Terra will start under $60,000 in the U.S. Prices for Canada are a complete mystery at this point. Initial production is targeted to begin at the Scout Motors Production Center near Columbia, South Carolina in 2027. The plant will have an annual capacity of more than 200,000 units.