Scout Motors is reviving the legendary Scout name with the 2027 Traveler SUV and Terra truck, both designed for serious off-road enthusiasts. These new electric 4x4s retain the classic rugged style and capability while incorporating modern technology. Built on a body-on-frame platform, both models boast up to 1,000 lb-ft of torque, dual-motor all-wheel-drive systems, and impressive towing capacities. They offer up to 350 miles of range, with an optional generator extending this to 500 miles. Production will start in 2027 in South Carolina, with a starting price under $60,000.
The revival of Scout is an homage to the original off-roaders who built a dedicated following from the 1960s to the 1980s. After over four decades, the new models aim to reestablish the brand’s legacy by offering vehicles that combine electric power with serious off-road performance. Scout Motors, now under Volkswagen's ownership, promises that the 2027 models will stay true to their roots as utilitarian, go-anywhere vehicles while embracing the future with fully electric powertrains.
Modern Off-Roading Meets Classic Design
.jpg)
The Traveler and Terra concepts showcase a blend of classic Scout design cues and modern styling. The vehicles feature boxy, muscular lines reminiscent of their predecessors, ensuring they stand out in a market filled with soft roaders and crossover SUVs. Despite the modern updates, Scout Motors has kept functional details in mind, including mechanical switches and door handles for easy use, even while wearing gloves in rugged conditions. The interiors also feature durable materials designed to withstand mud, dust, and other challenges of serious off-roading.
.jpg)
Both the Traveler and Terra are built on a body-on-frame platform with off-road enthusiasts in mind. The vehicles will come with standard 4x4 drivetrains, solid rear axles, and front and rear mechanical lockers for tackling tough terrain. With ground clearance exceeding 12 inches on higher trims and front sway bar disconnects, they are poised to handle challenging trails.
The Terra truck is set to impress with a 5.5-foot bed, offering utility beyond the trail. It has a 10,000-pound towing capacity, which rivals many gas-powered trucks on the market. The Traveler SUV, while slightly less robust in towing at 7,000 pounds, still offers significant capability, making it ideal for Overlanding and towing smaller trailers or equipment.
.jpg)
The electric drivetrain is central to Scout’s new era, providing not only an eco-friendly power source but also a powerhouse on the trail. The dual-motor setup delivers up to 1,000 lb-ft of torque, enabling the vehicles to conquer steep inclines and rugged landscapes with ease. The electric motors’ instant torque will be a major advantage for off-road enthusiasts seeking maximum control over their vehicles in various driving conditions.
Scout’s commitment to range anxiety solutions includes an option for an extended-range model featuring a small gas-powered generator, pushing total range up to 500 miles. The 800-volt electrical architecture supports fast charging at up to 350 kW, meaning these vehicles can be rapidly charged at public charging stations, making them practical for long adventures.
.jpg)
Scout Motors is investing in a new facility in South Carolina to produce these rugged off-roaders, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to American-built vehicles. This approach not only taps into the rich history of Scout as a symbol of American adventure but also aligns with a broader trend of automakers shifting production to the U.S. to meet local demand and reduce supply chain complexities.
The reimagined Scout models are more than just a nod to history; they represent a future where electric power does not mean sacrificing capability. Scout Motors CEO Scott Keogh has emphasized that these vehicles will not be "badge-engineered" or diluted for mass appeal. Instead, they will cater to the needs of true off-roaders who demand performance and reliability.
The return of the Scout brand with the Traveler and Terra is not just about introducing new vehicles but about reviving a spirit of adventure. Whether it's exploring mountain trails, tackling challenging backcountry roads, or simply standing out in a crowded SUV market, the new Scout lineup aims to set a new standard for electric off-roaders.
Reservations for the 2027 Scout Traveler and Terra opened on October 24, 2024, with a refundable $100 deposit. Starting prices for both models are expected to be under $60,000, making them competitive options in the growing electric SUV and truck segments. Production is slated to begin in 2027, and given the current demand for off-road capable EVs, the Scout’s return could not be more timely.
.jpg)
The return of Scout represents more than just another entry into the electric vehicle market; it’s the revival of an icon. The Traveler and Terra aim to bring back the spirit of exploration and ruggedness, updated for a new generation of adventurers who embrace technology without abandoning tradition.
.jpg)
_websize.jpg)
