Reimagined Electric Truck Blends Modern Tech with Classic Appeal
Scout Motors, a new venture backed by Volkswagen, is aiming to capture a unique space in the evolving electric vehicle (EV) market. Their plan? To blend cutting-edge technology with the nostalgic charm of an iconic American brand.
“We’re an American, entrepreneurial, innovative startup on one hand, but on the other, we have the backing of one of the world’s largest OEMs [original equipment manufacturers] behind us,” said Ryan Decker, Scout’s Head of Strategy, in an interview with The Cool Down.
Owned by Volkswagen, Scout is breathing new life into the legacy of American trucks, popular from 1960 to 1980. They’re developing two new vehicles: a rugged utility vehicle (RUV) named “Traveler” and an electric pickup truck called “Terra.” These vehicles promise outstanding performance.
“[Scout] has this really unique chance to throw a dart right in the middle” of startups and legacy carmakers.,” Decker explained, emphasizing the advantage of infusing the brand’s rich heritage with fresh ideas.
Volkswagen’s backing provides critical expertise in scaling up production, securing supplier pricing, and manufacturing vehicles. “Those factors should give customers confidence and trust in their brand,” Decker noted.
Combining Old-School Truck Features with EV Innovation
Scout’s approach blends the best of the old with the best of the new. The company is incorporating classic truck features: a solid door handle, body-on-frame construction, solid rear axles, large tires, and heavy-duty suspension – elements that many new EV entrants are avoiding. These features are designed to provide a genuinely functional vehicle. The vintage trucks were known for their utility, originally manufactured by International Harvester.
“We have this really unique chance to honor that legacy, to honor that existing fandom, but to bring it along into the future,” Decker stated.
The company is also reviving classic elements, like the bench seat, to evoke nostalgia. Beyond these nostalgic touches, Scout vehicles will incorporate cutting-edge technology, including zonal architecture, over-the-air updates, smart accessory integration, and powerful electric motors.
It also means 0 to 60 in 3.5 seconds — and eliminating the range anxiety.
Addressing Range Anxiety and Performance
One of the major concerns for potential EV customers is range anxiety, which Scout hopes to address with a gas-powered range extender that should provide over 500 miles of range. This solution would allow drivers to refuel with either electricity or gasoline, preserving the core EV experience.
Sue Callaway, co-founder of Glovebox Media and an automotive industry insider, acknowledged Volkswagen’s strong commitment to the EV space. She noted that Scout’s ability to achieve a 500-mile range while maintaining a target price of around $50,000 could be a significant differentiator.
The new company aims to compete with other EV trucks, such as the electric Ford F-150, and will also offer alternatives to stablemate Rivian’s lineup. Their vehicles will be engineered in Detroit and manufactured in South Carolina, where a new $2 billion manufacturing plant is under construction.
“…[buyers] want to buy from a company that has changed a community. That’s exactly what we want to do with our factory in South Carolina. It’s more than just jobs. It’s healthcare, it’s education, it’s training, it’s development. It’s frankly really a source of pride for the Midlands region of South Carolina,” Decker shared.
Scout also plans to adopt a new sales model.
Scout plans to launch the Terra pickup truck and Traveler RUV models by the end of 2027.
