The 1970s are making a comeback, and it’s not just in fashion and music. Volkswagen is bringing back the iconic Scout SUV, with the promise of releasing the first models this summer. The reimagined Scout Motors brand was announced by Volkswagen in 2022, and now they have offered a vague release date for their first products.
In a social media post, Scout Motors teased their upcoming models, featuring sketches of a midsize SUV and pickup. These designs clearly embody the rugged and off-road capabilities that enthusiasts love. While the new Scouts will be all-electric, they will retain the classic body-on-frame structure found in old-fashioned pickup trucks. This design allows for better flexibility over rough terrains and sets them apart from most current electric SUVs that have a unibody-like design.
Scout CEO Scott Keogh revealed that the initial lineup will include a large B SUV and then a full-size pickup. The vehicles will be produced in South Carolina, which could potentially make them eligible for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit. However, the company has not yet disclosed where the Scouts will be sold or the specifics of their distribution strategy.
Keogh emphasized that they need to finalize the products before deciding how to sell them. This opens up possibilities for unique marketing approaches, such as creating dedicated sections in Volkswagen dealerships with a dirt-road theme or adopting a dealerless model similar to Rivian and other electric rivals.
As summer approaches, more details about the new Scout SUVs are expected to be revealed. In the meantime, automotive enthusiasts and fans of the classic Scout can anticipate a new electric competitor in the off-road market with a nostalgic appeal. The return of the VW Scout is another testament to the revival of 1970s trends in contemporary society.
So get ready to embrace the retro vibes of the ’70s with the upcoming Scout SUVs, and who knows, maybe velour will become acceptable again too!
Sources:
– Volkswagen announces the revival of Scout Motors and plans to release the first models this summer. (link)
– Scout Motors teases the upcoming models with sketches of a midsize SUV and pickup. (link)
– The new Scouts will be all-electric but will retain a body-on-frame structure for better off-road capabilities. (link)
– Scott Keogh, CEO of Scout Motors, reveals plans for a large B SUV and then a full-size pickup. (link)
– The company has not yet disclosed details about where the Scouts will be sold or their distribution strategy. (link)
