The Scout brand is making a comeback, and it’s bringing something exciting to the world of off-roading. The new Scout Terra pickup truck and Scout Traveler SUV are both electric vehicles (EVs) that promise to combine rugged performance with modern technology. These vehicles are not just about nostalgic looks; they’re built for serious off-road adventures.
Originally introduced by International Harvester in the 1960s and ‘70s, the Scout name is well-known among off-road enthusiasts. Now, under the ownership of Volkswagen Group, Scout is back with a fresh new lineup. The Terra and Traveler are set to fill a gap in the electric vehicle market by offering off-road capabilities that few EVs currently provide.
One of the standout features of the Terra and Traveler is their body-on-frame construction, which is uncommon among electric vehicles. Most modern EVs use unibody designs, but Scout is sticking to a more traditional approach that provides extra strength and durability for tough terrains. Both vehicles also feature a solid rear axle, a setup that’s typically seen in trucks and off-road vehicles but is rare in today’s EVs. This setup makes the Scout vehicles more capable of handling rough trails and tough conditions, ensuring they’re ready for any adventure.
In addition to being fully electric, both the Terra and Traveler will also be available as plug-in hybrids, known as the “Harvester” models. These hybrids will have a gas-powered engine that acts as a range extender, meaning they can go much further than the all-electric versions. While the electric versions will offer a range of up to 350 miles on a full charge, the Harvester models should be able to travel over 500 miles, making them ideal for long trips in remote areas.
When it comes to power, the Scout Terra and Traveler won’t disappoint. Both vehicles will come with dual electric motors—one for each axle—which will give them plenty of torque for off-road driving. Scout estimates that the all-wheel-drive setup will produce about 1000 pound-feet of torque, giving the vehicles plenty of power to climb steep hills, cross rough trails, and handle any other obstacles that come their way.
Scout’s platform combines the best of traditional off-road design with modern EV technology. While vehicles like the Ford F-150 Lightning also use body-on-frame construction, the Scout vehicles have a solid rear axle, which gives them a distinct advantage when it comes to towing and payload capacity. This setup allows the Terra and Traveler to carry heavy loads while maintaining the durability needed for off-road use.
The competition for the Scout Terra and Traveler is fierce. There are already several electric pickup trucks and SUVs on the market, including the Ford F-150 Lightning, GMC Hummer EV, and Rivian’s R1T and R1S. These vehicles are impressive in their own right, but few are designed with off-roading in mind. The Scout models aim to fill this gap, offering electric off-roaders that are as capable as they are sustainable.
In addition to competing with electric vehicles, the Scout models will also go up against plug-in hybrid vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler 4xe and the Ram 1500 Ramcharger. While these vehicles are designed for off-roading, the Scout vehicles stand out with their combination of traditional off-road engineering and electric powertrains, making them a unique offering in the market.
Despite the excitement surrounding the Scout Terra and Traveler, the brand’s revival does face some challenges. Scout is backed by Volkswagen Group, which bought the brand in 2021, but Volkswagen has faced some financial struggles recently, especially as it transitions to electric vehicles. The success of Scout will depend on how well the brand can execute its plans and compete in the crowded EV market. Volkswagen has already invested $2 billion into a new factory in South Carolina where the Terra and Traveler will be built, but the long-term success of Scout is still uncertain.
The Scout Terra and Traveler are expected to enter production in 2027, with the vehicles debuting as 2028 models. They will start at under $60,000, making them an affordable option for off-road enthusiasts who want to transition to electric or hybrid vehicles.
Overall, the Scout Terra and Traveler represent a major step forward for electric off-road vehicles. By combining rugged performance with electric powertrains, these vehicles offer a unique combination of power, sustainability, and off-road capability. For those who love adventure and want to reduce their environmental impact, the Scout Terra and Traveler are worth waiting for.
