Volkswagen’s Scout Motors Readies Launch of Two Electric Vehicles in 2027

In an ambitious move that underscores its commitment to the electric vehicle (EV) segment, Scout Motors, a subsidiary of Volkswagen, is preparing to launch two new vehicles: a pickup truck and an SUV, both expected to hit the U.S. market by 2027. With a price point starting around $60,000, Scout aims to appeal to an audience eager for robust performance and innovative features.

Launched just two years ago, Scout Motors positions itself to become a significant player in the increasingly competitive EV landscape. Initially, the company had targeted a 2026 release for its first U.S. models before announcing an adjustment to 2027. The forthcoming vehicles will feature a body-on-frame chassis, a solid rear axle, and both front and rear mechanical lockers, which are integral for off-road capabilities. In terms of performance, the anticipated powertrain will deliver an impressive 1,000 pound-feet of torque, allowing the vehicles to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in a mere 3.5 seconds, catering to the demands of speed enthusiasts and utility seekers alike.

Scott Keogh, CEO of Scout Motors, acknowledged the pressing challenges currently facing the automotive industry during the unveiling event. “These, without a doubt, are complicated times,” Keogh noted, referring to labor tensions, infrastructure apprehensions related to the EV shift, geopolitical uncertainties, and other factors affecting the market.

In a strategic move to enhance appeal, Scout Motors plans to equip its electric vehicles with a range capability of up to 350 miles on a single charge, utilizing the widely adopted Tesla charging system. Moreover, the company is incorporating a built-in gas-powered generator to extend the driving range by an additional 150 miles, effectively allowing for a maximum distance of 500 miles. This dual approach could resonate with consumers who are still wary of fully committing to electric models, especially as the recent trends reveal hybrid sales in the U.S. growing three times faster than those of fully electric vehicles.

This year, hybrid vehicles accounted for nearly 12% of the car market, in contrast to EVs, which lagged behind at just under 8%, according to data from research firm Motor Intelligence. The appetite for hybrids suggests that the inclusion of a gasoline option may well bolster Scout’s market performance.

The inception of Scout Motors traces back to 2022 when Volkswagen acquired the brand’s trademark after its purchase of International Motors, the American truck manufacturer. The International Harvester Scout, iconic from 1960 to 1980, set the precedent for the SUV segment that would dominate American roads in the following decades.

To support the production of these new models, Scout Motors has commenced the development of a new manufacturing facility in South Carolina, which, according to the company, will be instrumental in crafting the next generation of electric trucks and SUVs. This move reflects a commitment to local production, aiming to bolster the U.S. automotive job market while meeting the growing demand for electric vehicles.

As the EV segment continues evolving in light of emerging technologies and shifting consumer preferences, Scout Motors is strategically positioning itself not just as a traditional automaker but as an innovator ready to tackle the complexities of modern automotive demands. With overhauling factors like inflation, supply chain challenges, and a pressing need for sustainable solutions, the market remains uncertain yet ripe for new entries like Scout. Their upcoming electric pickup and SUV may well symbolize a significant stride forward in the electric vehicle landscape, shaping the future of transportation in America.