- Scout Motors is set to unveil a concept SUV and pickup truck on October 24.
- The Volkswagen-backed brand will manufacture rugged electric vehicles at a new plant in South Carolina.
- The launch of the Scout SUV and truck may finally enable Volkswagen to succeed in the American market.
The electric vehicle industry has been eagerly anticipating updates about Scout Motors, a new venture from the Volkswagen Group focused on creating durable electric vehicles. The company has now announced a date to unveil two concept models.
On Tuesday, Scout revealed that it will present designs for both an SUV and a pickup truck on October 24. Although Volkswagen is one of the largest automotive manufacturers globally, with a diverse lineup that includes brands like Porsche and Bentley, it has struggled to establish a significant presence in the U.S. market over the years. Introducing powerful SUVs and pickup trucks—vehicles that are highly desirable to American consumers—could provide a turning point for the brand.
If the name “Scout” sounds familiar, it’s because International Harvester produced a well-known SUV with that name from 1960 to 1980. Volkswagen acquired the Scout trademark after purchasing Navistar, the successor to International Harvester, in 2020.
Now, the company is reviving the Scout name for a new range of off-road-focused EVs that will combine modern design with the spirit of the classic Scout. These vehicles are envisioned to be reminiscent of the Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco—but powered by electricity.
“Designed for both utility and leisure, our new Scout SUV and truck will be rugged, capable, and adaptable. They need to embody the Scout legacy credibly. With tactile controls and a genuine feel, they’ll cater to the needs of Americans, whether on highways or off the beaten path,” stated Scout CEO Scott Keogh in a LinkedIn post regarding the upcoming event.
Renderings of the Scout electric pickup and SUV from the Volkswagen Group.
Once they enter production in 2026, Scout’s EVs will rival models like the Rivian R1S and the Ford F-150 Lightning. The vehicles will be manufactured in a new facility in South Carolina using a dedicated platform created specifically for electric vehicles. Unlike existing models, they will not simply be modified versions of the Volkswagen ID.4.
We eagerly anticipate more detailed information about the new Scout vehicles in October and will provide on-site coverage as updates emerge. What are your expectations for the Scouts? What information would you like to know? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Contact the author: tim.levin@insideevs.com
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