The International Scout was an early SUV pioneer in the United States, marketed by International Harvester from 1961 to 1980.
Scout is making a comeback, at least in spirit, as an electric-only brand owned by Volkswagen, following the German automaker’s 2021 acquisition of truck manufacturer Navistar International.
The new Scout Terra double-cab pick-up and Scout Traveler SUV, which were unveiled in the United States on Thursday evening, combine sophisticated throwback styling with a seemingly sturdy body-on-frame chassis and all-electric powertrain.
Pricing for the US market begins at $50,000 (about R885,000), although there is no indication at this time whether the Scout brand is intended for overseas markets.
The vehicles use an 800-volt electrical architecture, and the ordinary electric version has an estimated range of 560 kilometers between charges. Scout does, however, offer a range-extended model with a petrol-powered generator that increases the range to approximately 800km.
Scout hasn’t revealed much about the dual-motor 4×4 drivetrain, although it claims a massive maximum torque number of 1,355Nm and a 0-96km/h sprint time of under 3.5 seconds.
That’s amazing on its own, but the brand really wants to stand out with its off-road capabilities.
To that purpose, the vehicles are based on a custom body-on-frame chassis and have a solid back axle, locking differentials on both axles, and a front sway bar disconnect. With one foot (304mm) of ground clearance and a variety of “robust” suspension settings, there’s little dispute about the Scout’s trail-busting ability.
Despite the inclusion of batteries in the chassis, the firm claims a wading depth of more than 900mm.
Owners may also expect novelties like a ‘Cabana’ style removable roof, many power outlets for charging devices and equipment, and a vast choice of available off-road accessories, including off-road bumpers with recovery points and a heavy-duty winch.
“A Scout vehicle should always be a helpful companion,” stated Chris Benjamin, Chief Design Officer at Scout Motors.
“It should always enable the customer to do the things they want to do and make their experience easier, better, faster.”
The Scout Terra and Traveler (intentional ‘US English’ spelling error) are unlikely to visit South Africa at any point. But we bet you wish they did.