Revolutionizing the Roads: VW’s Electric Scout Truck Makes a Big Comeback

The Revival of an Iconic Name: Scout Motors, Volkwagen’s Latest Electric Play

As we inch closer to the big reveal, the hype is palpable. At 5:00 p.m. ET, two concept vehicles will be unveiled, marking the return of the 44-year-dormant Scout nameplate. Gone are the old assembly lines and dusty blueprints of the past; this is a brand-new, all-electric era. The most striking aspect? This time, the Scout is the brainchild of none other than Volkswagen, one of the world’s biggest automakers.

The rise of EVs has led to a maelstrom of creative disruptions in the car world. We’ve seen a few brands emerge, some fade away, and others spin off as standalone entities. This time, a blue-chip German automaker is investing in a new American model, building its own US facilities, and giving a name that’s been dormant for nearly four decades a second lease on life.

Let’s break it down:

* What does the Scout name mean to you?

For the uninitiated, the Scout name is closely tied to its off-road capabilities, making it a desirable commodity in a world where outdoor enthusiasts crave adventure. Scouting is all about exploring, navigating the wild, and discovering hidden gems – traits that align perfectly with electric vehicles, which are poised to revolutionize the way we travel.

* The Scout of the past is not like the Rivian of today
The original Scout was more than just a rough-riding, off-road-oriented vehicle; it was also a utilitarian, no-nonsense, and rugged daily driver. There’s an undeniable appeal to the classic design language. Actual owners of the old Scouts will be hard-pressed to trade in their trusty steed for a modern EV, no matter how impressive its capabilities.

* Hints of a throwback
The marketing imagery abounds, connecting the new Scout with its retro brethren. We see nods to the old Scouts, and some folks might even recognize the rugged, no-frills vibe. It’s a calculated risk taken by Scout Motors: by tapping into the nostalgia of those who fondly remember the classics, the brand hopes to attract not just enthusiasts but also those who crave a tried-and-true US vehicle.

So, what’s next for Scout Motors?

Our trusty crystal balls suggest the following:

* 2026 availability, with a projected base price in the $60,000 range (but pricier options launching in 2027)
* A range of around 400 miles, with selected trims surpassing the Rivian’s 2,000-pound payload capacity
* That innovative, gimmicky feature? How about a detachable, trail-scouting drone, beaming a live, FPV video feed to your infotainment system? (Hey, Scout team, you’re welcome for the idea – er, not really, but it would be awesome, wouldn’t it?)

The partnership with Rivian is no secret, and while the company remains tight-lipped about potential platform or tech sharing, it’s clear that the two brands are gearing up for something special. So, as we count down to the big reveal, let’s explore the good, the bad, and the speculative aspects of the Scout revival. We’re thrilled to dive in and provide context to heighten our appreciation for this bold move by Volkswagen. Stay tuned!