Scout to Unveil Two Electric Concepts in 2026

Scout, a Volkswagen-backed company formed to revive the iconic International Harvester 4x4 brand, is set to showcase two concept SUVs next month. These two models are expected to hit the market by 2026.

Scout Brand Lineup: SUV and Pickup

The Scout lineup will consist of two vehicles—a rugged all-electric SUV and a pickup truck. The SUV will directly compete with off-road champions like the Land Rover Defender, Ford Bronco, and Jeep Wrangler. The pickup, on the other hand, will target the likes of the Rivian R1T and the Ford F-150 Lightning, further expanding Scout’s appeal in the electric truck segment.

Design Inspired by the Original Scout II

The design of both models draws inspiration from the original International Harvester Scout II, which was produced between 1971 and 1980. This vehicle was a direct competitor to the Jeep CJ series of that era. Teasers of the new concepts reveal squared-off, retro-futuristic designs, staying true to Scout’s heritage. Key design elements include vertically stacked tail lights and kinked C-pillars. Higher variants are expected to feature chunky all-terrain tires, while more road-focused versions are also in development.

Manufacturing and Platform Details

Both the Scout SUV and pickup will be built at a new manufacturing plant in South Carolina, USA. The vehicles will utilize batteries and electronics sourced from Magna, a leading automotive supplier. These models will be based on a brand-new ladder-frame platform, which is distinct from Volkswagen’s existing MEB and PPE architectures used globally.

Production Plans

Production of the Scout SUV is slated to begin in 2026. Volkswagen aims to gradually ramp up production at the South Carolina plant, with a target of producing 200,000 units annually.