According to Scout CEO Scott Keogh, reservations for Scout Motors’ range-extended models are surpassing those for pure electric versions. Keogh shared this information in an interview with Bloomberg at CES 2025 in Las Vegas this week.
The upcoming Volkswagen Group brand is set to introduce its Traveler SUV and Terra pickup truck in 2027 featuring a powertrain known as Harvester. The Harvester powertrain includes a gasoline engine acting as a generator to enhance range. It is estimated to offer 500 miles on a combination of gasoline and battery power, compared to the 350 miles provided by battery-only versions.
Scout Traveler concept
Keogh mentioned that the Harvester models are attracting more reservations due to the lack of interest in electric vehicles in certain parts of the U.S. and concerns regarding the availability of public charging stations. The range-extended powertrain provides a solution by offering a “50-state vehicle” that can be marketed in regions that are less EV-friendly.
“The two challenges we see with electrification, charging infrastructure—and of course this takes that all off the table—and plus there’s convenience,” Keogh explained. “I think with those two things, a range extender makes a lot of sense.” He also highlighted that the production mix of all-electric or range-extended vehicles can be easily adjusted to meet changes in demand.
Scout Terra concept
In 2022, the VW Group introduced Scout, a brand that pays homage to trucks manufactured by International Harvester from 1961-1980. Scout operates under the umbrella of the parent company, VW Group, and aims to implement a direct-sales model similar to other EV-only brands like Lucid, Rivian, and Tesla, despite resistance from VW’s franchised dealers.
The Traveler and Terra models draw inspiration from the original Scout trucks with retro styling, body-on-frame architecture, and a focus on physical controls over touchscreens. They are expected to include software-based features such as pet and camp modes, aligning with the technological advancements seen in other EV brands. Reports suggest that a third model is in development, although the timeline for its release remains uncertain. Learn more.