History of Scout Motors in Timeline
Scout Motors Inc., an American automotive company, is currently owned by the German automotive giant, Volkswagen Group. Volkswagen acquired the Scout brand through its purchase of Navistar International, an American truck manufacturer, in 2021.
1961: Introduction of International Scout
The Scout marque is named after the International Scout, an off-road vehicle that was first produced in 1961.
1980: End of International Scout production
Production of the International Scout, after which the Scout marque is named, concluded in 1980.
2020: Volkswagen obtains Scout trademark
In 2020, Volkswagen acquired the Scout trademark via its American truck subsidiary, Navistar International.
2021: Volkswagen acquires Scout brand
In 2021, Volkswagen Group acquired the Scout brand after purchasing American truck manufacturer Navistar International. This acquisition made Scout Motors a part of Volkswagen's portfolio.
May 11, 2022: Volkswagen announces Scout brand
On May 11, 2022, Volkswagen AG announced the creation of Scout, a new brand dedicated to electric vehicles. Designed, developed, manufactured, and marketed in the US, Scott Keogh was appointed as the first CEO.
May 2022: Establishment of Scout Motors
In May 2022, Scout Motors was established as an independent company focused on producing off-road capable electric vehicles. Based entirely in the US, the company is headquartered in Tysons, Virginia and operates separately from Volkswagen with its own executive team.
March 3, 2023: Scout Motors plans South Carolina factory
On March 3, 2023, Scout Motors revealed plans to establish a $2 billion factory in Blythewood, South Carolina, set to produce 200,000 electric vehicles annually. The factory is expected to employ up to 4,000 people.
December 2023: Announcement of R&D facility in Michigan
In December 2023, Scout Motors announced plans to open its first R&D facility in Novi, Michigan, expected to become operational in 2024.
October 24, 2024: Debut of Scout Motors concepts
On October 24, 2024, Scout Motors debuted two concept vehicles: the Terra, a pickup truck, and the Traveler, an SUV. These vehicles are expected to be released in late 2027 as 2028 models.
2024: Opening of new R&D facility
Scout Motors plans to open a new R&D facility in Novi, Michigan in 2024, which will employ approximately 200 people.
2027: Launch of Scout's first vehicles
In 2027, Scout Motors plans to launch its first two vehicles: a small off-road SUV and a pickup truck.
2028: Model year for new Scout vehicles
The Terra pickup truck and Traveler SUV, debuted in 2024, are set to be released as 2028 models.
