Volkswagen’s ambitious revival of the iconic Scout brand is one of the most exciting ventures in the electric vehicle (EV) market today. Known for rugged, off-road-ready machines in the 1960s and 70s, the Scout nameplate holds a special place in automotive history. Now, under Volkswagen’s stewardship, the brand is making a return with two modern, electrified entries: an all-electric SUV and a pickup truck. These new models are set to take on some stiff competition in the form of the Jeep Recon, Rivian R1T, and other electric off-roaders, but their heritage and engineering promise to make them stand out in this increasingly crowded segment.
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Reviving the Scout Legacy for the Electric Age
Volkswagen’s decision to revive Scout as an all-electric brand is not only a nod to nostalgia but a forward-thinking move into the rapidly expanding EV market. With a growing demand for electric trucks and SUVs—especially in North America—Volkswagen has identified a unique opportunity to blend past and future. Scout’s legacy is deeply rooted in rugged off-road capability, and these new electric vehicles are expected to maintain this DNA while embracing advanced EV technology.
Let’s dive into the key elements of these new models, including what we know so far about their performance, technology, and most intriguingly, how they might look.
All-Electric Power and Off-Road Prowess
Both the upcoming Scout SUV and pickup truck will be fully electric, aligning with Volkswagen’s broader goal of expanding its electric vehicle lineup. While precise details about battery size, range, or motor specifications are still under wraps until their official reveal in October 2024, industry speculation suggests they will be designed for performance both on and off the road.
Scout’s off-road heritage almost guarantees that these vehicles will be more than just all-electric crossovers with off-road styling. They’re expected to offer real off-road capability, with rugged construction, all-wheel drive, and likely some form of adaptive terrain management systems—think adjustable ride heights, advanced traction control, and even modes specifically designed for tackling mud, sand, or snow.
Built in America for a Global Audience
Volkswagen has chosen to manufacture these new Scout vehicles in the United States, with a new factory planned for South Carolina. This move not only allows them to tap into the American market, where off-road-ready trucks and SUVs are immensely popular, but it also aligns with growing consumer demand for local production of EVs in North America. This should also help Scout compete more effectively against domestic EV rivals like Rivian and Ford.
Anticipated Features and Range
While details are still under wraps, it’s reasonable to expect the Scout SUV and pickup to offer competitive range, likely surpassing the 300-mile mark, making them viable for both long-distance travel and outdoor adventures. With Volkswagen’s experience in the EV space, such as the development of their MEB platform used in the ID.4, Scout’s vehicles could borrow elements from existing platforms or incorporate an entirely new one designed for both efficiency and off-road strength.
Expect high-tech interiors loaded with large touchscreens, advanced driver assistance systems, and customizable off-road settings. Features such as over-the-air software updates, multiple drive modes for different terrains, and possibly even features like hands-free driving could make these vehicles not just off-road beasts but highly advanced technological powerhouses.
Exterior Design: Boxy, Rugged, and Modern
Design is where the Scout SUV and pickup might shine the brightest, bringing together the best of classic off-road aesthetics and modern EV design cues. Based on teasers and speculative renders, here’s what the Scout SUV and pickup might look like:
- Rugged and Boxy Silhouette: The classic Scout vehicles were known for their boxy, utilitarian design—a hallmark of any serious off-road vehicle. This look is likely to carry over to the electric models, with squared-off edges, a commanding front grille, and wide, muscular wheel arches. The boxy design speaks to capability, durability, and practicality, all essential elements for off-road vehicles.
- Nods to Scout Heritage: Scout enthusiasts will likely be thrilled to see design elements that echo the original models, from iconic grilles to retro-styled badging. However, these won’t be mere copy-paste throwbacks. Expect subtle references—perhaps through the design of the headlights or the shape of the rear tailgate—that honor the past while embracing the future.
- Modern Touches and LED Lighting: While the shape may be rugged, expect modern touches that cater to contemporary tastes. Full-LED lighting, including signature daytime running lights and sleek tail lamps, will help modernize the design. Sharp, defined body lines could add a sense of sophistication, helping to balance the old-school boxy shape with today’s demand for aerodynamic efficiency. Aerodynamics, especially in electric vehicles, plays a crucial role in optimizing range, so these rugged vehicles will likely be designed to slice through the air better than their gas-guzzling predecessors.
- Functional Off-Road Enhancements: Given Scout’s off-road DNA, expect functional elements that emphasize the vehicle’s adventurous side. Skid plates, roof racks, and beefy off-road tires are almost certain. Raised ground clearance and short overhangs could improve approach and departure angles, making these vehicles ready to tackle serious trails. Additionally, some models could feature removable roof panels, akin to the Jeep Wrangler, offering an open-air experience for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the great outdoors.
- Customization and Personalization: Today’s automotive market is all about giving consumers choices, and the Scout SUV and pickup could follow this trend with a variety of trims, packages, and custom accessories. Scout may offer aggressive off-road packages with larger tires, specialized shocks, and protective armor for those seeking the ultimate adventure rig, while also catering to more lifestyle-focused buyers with premium trims that focus on comfort and technology.
Interior Expectations: Mixing Comfort with Utility
The interior of the Scout SUV and pickup will likely blend modern technology with practical, adventure-ready design. We can expect large, horizontal touchscreens to dominate the dashboard, offering intuitive controls for navigation, entertainment, and off-road settings. Volkswagen’s expertise with interior tech will likely translate into a seamless digital experience, with voice controls, customizable screens, and possibly even augmented reality features.
Despite the focus on technology, the interior will likely retain a utilitarian feel. Durable, easy-to-clean materials could dominate, especially in off-road-focused trims. However, higher-end models may feature more premium materials like leather, wood accents, and ambient lighting, catering to those who want luxury as well as capability.
Pricing and Competition
While pricing hasn’t been officially confirmed, Scout will likely aim for a competitive range to position itself well against established electric off-roaders. The Rivian R1T and Jeep Recon start in the $60,000 range, so Scout could follow a similar strategy, offering a well-rounded product at a price point accessible to adventure-seekers and EV enthusiasts alike.
Scout will also compete with upcoming EV pickups from legacy brands like Ford, GM, and even Tesla, so they will need to offer a combination of price, range, and capability that appeals to a wide range of buyers. Expect flexible financing options, especially with the ongoing incentives for EV purchases in the United States.
A New Era of Electric Off-Roading
Volkswagen’s Scout SUV and pickup trucks represent the future of off-roading, where rugged, go-anywhere vehicles meet sustainable, electric power. As we inch closer to the official reveal in October 2024, speculation around design, performance, and features only builds excitement. If the teasers and leaks are anything to go by, Scout is poised to make a significant impact in the electric vehicle market, not only reviving a beloved name but pushing the boundaries of what electric off-roaders can do. For adventure lovers and EV enthusiasts alike, Scout’s return could mark the dawn of a new era in all-terrain exploration—one that blends the past with the future in the most electrifying way possible.
This information is purely speculative, as Scout Motors has not released any official details, and the AI-generated car images are not official designs.
