Scout Traveler and Terra: Volkswagen reveals Rivian-like electric ute, SUV

Volkswagen’s fledgling Scout Motors division has revealed its first two vehicles, though it’ll be a long wait until they’re in showrooms.

Scout Motors is calling the Terra ute and Traveler SUV “production-intent concept vehicles”. They’ll offer a choice of electric or range-extender powertrains, the latter of which will feature a petrol engine.

It has opened reservations for the new models, with production to commence at its new factory in the US state of South Carolina in 2027. They’ll be sold direct to consumers, much like Teslas.

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Designed and engineered in Michigan, Scout Motors says its first vehicles are thoroughly American. They even dust off an iconic American nameplate from the defunct International Harvester brand.

Scout Motors says retail prices will start under US$60,000 (~A$90,000), not including government incentives.

They use an all-new, proprietary body-on-frame platform, featuring four-wheel drive, a live rear axle, and over 305mm of ground clearance and nearly 914mm of water-fording capability.

Off-road equipment includes locking front and rear differentials and a front sway bar disconnect.

Scout Motors says the Terra can tow up to 4536kg, while the Terra can tow more than 3175kg. Payload is “nearly” 907kg on both models.

Electric models are anticipated to offer up to 563km of range, with range-extended variants to bump this up to over 805km of total range thanks to a petrol engine serving as a generator to recharge the battery. It hasn’t confirmed what size this engine is, other than to say it’s “small”.

All models use an 800-volt architecture with up to 350kW of DC charging capability, as well as bi-directional charging.

The Terra’s 1676mm-long tub features two 120V power outlets and one 240V power outlet.

The Scout models will reach 60mph (96km/h) in as little as 3.5 seconds. While the company hasn’t released power figures, it says they’ll offer nearly 1356Nm of torque.

The company says its “first priority” was to “honour the spirit of the original Scout vehicles”, manufactured by International Harvester from 1961 to 1980.

Both models feature a long bonnet and short front overhang, with design cues inspired by the original Scout.

The Traveler features an external spare tyre carrier, while the Terra can be had with a spare mounted under the body or inside the tub.

Multiple roof types will be available, with the Traveler offering an optional Cabana Top that’s claimed to be one of the largest roof openings of any SUV.

While there are some visual similarities between the Scouts and the R1T and R1S from American startup Rivian, with which Volkswagen recently started working with on technology, the Terra and Traveler are larger vehicles overall.

In terms of overall length, the Terra is larger than the R1T (5514mm) and Tesla Cybertruck (5683mm) but shorter than the Ford F-150 Lightning (5911mm).

Here’s how the Scouts measure up:

Scout Motors will offer a wide range of accessories, including auxiliary lighting, assist steps, and winches.

Inside, there’s an available front bench seat in true 1970s fashion, but the huge digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen – neatly integrated into the dashboard – are anything but retro.

Under the touchscreen is a bank of toggle switches and knobs for the climate control.

Scout says its Scout Community UX “intentionally does not bury features in menu or screens”.

“Two years in the making, the day has finally come to share the next generation of Scout vehicles with the world,” said Scout Motors CEO Scott Keogh.

“The original core idea – rugged, versatile vehicles capable of off-road adventure and family duty – is more relevant than ever.

“We couldn’t be prouder to revitalise this iconic American brand, create thousands of American jobs, and put American ingenuity back to work.”

Scout Motors has yet to confirm whether it’ll build vehicles in right-hand drive, however Volkswagen Australia has previously said it’s keen to bring them here should right-hook versions be available.

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