Scout Motors, a new brand under the Volkswagen Group, plans to introduce a range-extending internal combustion engine for its electric pickup truck, the Terra, and SUV, the Traveler. While both vehicles will primarily be electric, the company will offer an optional four-cylinder gasoline engine, the Harvester.
The engine, manufactured at Volkswagen’s plant in Silao, Mexico, features a naturally aspirated design without a turbocharger. The naming strategy honors the legacy of International Harvester, which produced Scout vehicles from the 1960s to the 1980s.
Unlike traditional setups, this engine won’t power the wheels directly. Instead, it will function as a generator to charge the battery while driving. Scout’s strategy leader explained that the engine, positioned behind the rear axle, operates so quietly that drivers will barely notice it, preserving the signature silence of an electric vehicle (EV).
Scout’s range extender strategy addresses the technological constraints of EVs and alleviates consumer concerns. This is crucial for the Terra and Traveler, which compete in the heavy-duty pickup and off-road SUV segments, where range anxiety and charging infrastructure limitations remain significant hurdles. The Harvester represents a pragmatic compromise in this context.
The setup mirrors the BMW i3, Chevrolet Volt, and upcoming RAM 1500 Ramcharger. The engine is designed solely for battery charging, with a four-cylinder design focused on weight efficiency. The decision to skip a turbocharger aims to reduce noise, improve reliability, and simplify maintenance.
Volkswagen plans to use range extender technology in Chinese and European markets as part of a strategy to capture EV market share before fully transitioning to battery electric vehicles (BEVs). In the U.S., this approach helps Scout qualify for IRA tax credits as a North American-produced EV, while the Harvester offers a practical solution with limited charging infrastructure.
Scout’s minimal overlap with Volkswagen’s existing lineup offers an opportunity to create a distinct brand identity. The industry will closely watch how Scout’s entry into the next-generation electric off-road market influences competitor strategies.
