The Scout Traveler SUV is a newly re-imagined full-size electric off-road SUV from the revived brand originally known for classic off-road vehicles in the United States. The new Traveler is being developed as a body-on-frame SUV with strong off-road credentials, modern electric (and extended-range) powertrains, and a design philosophy that merges rugged utility with usable everyday comfort. The company aims to begin production in 2027, offering an SUV that can handle both daily driving and adventurous off-road trips.
Price & Production Timeline
- The entry-level version of the Scout Traveler is slated to start at just under US $60,000 according to Scout’s official announcements.
- With applicable incentives (for example, federal EV tax credits), the effective price could go as low as ≈ US $50,000.
- Company’s own targets for retail pricing keep the SUV under $60,000 before incentives.
- Reservation for the Traveler opened in late 2024 with a small refundable fee, and production is expected to start in 2027, from a newly built factory in Blythewood, South Carolina.
Given these details, Scout positions the Traveler as a relatively affordable full-size EV SUV compared to many premium electric SUVs, while promising strong performance and ruggedness.
Key Specifications & Performance
Platform, Powertrain & Off-Road Readiness
- The Traveler will use a body-on-frame chassis — uncommon among many modern EV SUVs — giving it strength for towing, payload, and off-road durability.
- It will come with mechanical locking differentials (front and rear) and a solid rear axle, features geared toward serious off-road or rough-terrain use.
- For powertrain options, Scout offers:
- A pure battery-electric (BEV) version, targeting up to ≈ 350 miles (≈ 563 km) of driving range on a full charge.
- A range-extended (EREV) variant — with a built-in gasoline generator (called “Harvester”) — to push effective range to 500 miles (≈ 800 km) or more for long trips or remote travel.
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Scout Motors
- The SUV is expected to support fast charging via 800-volt architecture, with a charging system capable up to 350 kW, and utilize the NACS (North American Charging Standard) (so it can use common charging networks).
🚗 Towing, Payload & Capability
- Estimated towing capacity: over 7,000 pounds (≈ 3,175 kg) — impressive for an SUV and useful if you plan on towing trailers, campers, boats, etc.
- Estimated payload capacity: around 2,000 pounds (≈ 907 kg).
- The chassis design supports large off-road capable tyres — up to 35-inch tyres — giving the Traveler substantial ground-clearance and off-road readiness.
🛋 Interior, Utility & Design Features
- Seating for up to six passengers — suitable for families or group travel.
- The design includes modern touches with a mix of comfort and utility: a roomy cabin, generous cargo/storage space, and a “front trunk” (frunk) along with rear cargo capacity.
- For those wanting adventure-ready features, the Traveler offers “rugged” design elements reminiscent of classic off-road SUVs, while integrating EV-era technology — a blend of nostalgia and modern convenience.
⚙ Additional Technical & EV Features
- The SUV’s electrical architecture includes an 800-volt system — enabling fast charging and potentially better efficiency.
- The company emphasizes “mechanical” elements — physical switches, door handles, simple controls — a contrast to the software-heavy minimalist EVs. This suits buyers who prefer tactile, rugged utility over touchscreen-only interfaces.
What This Means — Why the Traveler SUV Stands Out
- Affordable EV SUV with real capability: With starting price under $60,000 (before incentives), the Traveler aims to undercut many premium electric SUVs while offering features — off-road ready chassis, high towing capacity, large range — that make it more “do-everything” than many minimalist EV crossovers.
- Versatility for city, highway, and adventure: Whether you need an SUV for daily commuting, long road trips, towing or off-road adventures — its combination of electric range and rugged build gives flexibility.
- Modern meets classic: Scout’s design philosophy is to revive the spirit of classic American SUVs — robust, functional, utilitarian — but updated with electric powertrain and modern technologies.
- Range and convenience balance: The dual option of BEV and range-extender (gas-generator) means buyers worried about charging infrastructure or long road-trips don’t have to compromise on convenience or range.
Timeline & What to Watch Out For (H2)
- As of now, the official planned production start is 2027, with the first units expected to roll out after that.
- Reservation is open with a $100 fully refundable booking fee — but final specifications, trim levels, and on-road pricing (after taxes, shipping, destination fees) may vary.
- Since the Traveler is still in “pre-production / concept” stage, some figures (range, towing, dimensions) are “targeted” — subject to change before final production.
Disclaimer
The information above is based on publicly available data, official statements, and specifications released by Scout Motors as of this writing. Since the Scout Traveler SUV is not yet in full production, many details (battery capacity, final range, final trim-wise pricing, delivery timelines) remain provisional and could change depending on engineering, regulations, supply-chain constraints, and market conditions. Final on-road price will depend on destination fees, taxes, incentives, optional extras, and local regulations. If you intend to pre-order or buy — treat these as indicative specs and wait for the official production-ready specifications before making a purchase decision.