Scout Offers a Solution to Increase the Range of Gas Engines While Reducing Towing Capacity by 50%, Says CEO [Updated]

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      If you're thrilled about the resurrection of Scout Motors, you're not the only one. The Volkswagen subsidiary based in South Carolina reports over 150,000 reservations for its upcoming Terra pickup and Traveler SUV. Excitement has surged since Scout revealed it would shift from a purely electric strategy to include gasoline range-extenders. However, this added functionality reportedly comes with a drawback.

      That seems reasonable, doesn't it? The main concern with doing “truck tasks” (such as towing, hauling, lifting) with an electric vehicle is the associated reduction in range. Aside from the price, introducing a range-extending generator should be entirely beneficial. Yet, a year ago, Scout CEO Scott Keogh informed Jay Leno that with the Harvester range-extender powertrain, the towing capacity would decrease by 50%, from 10,000 to 5,000 pounds for the Terra pickup. Consequently, there was significant backlash across the Internet, from Reddit to various forums. Today, we learn that Scout has found a solution to the towing problem.

      Details are scarce, but at an Automotive Press Association event, Motor Trend inquired about the reduced tow rating due to the range-extender option. Keogh responded, “I think we have the tool kit without a doubt. And we’ve got some solutions on that front, nothing I’m announcing now.” He did not elaborate or clarify which solution from the team’s “tool kit” would address the halving of the tow rating for the range-extended powertrain, but this development gives potential buyers renewed optimism regarding capability.

      According to over 2,700 confirmed reservations tracked on the Scout EV forum, this information will be pertinent to more than 85% of purchasers. Only 13% of those expressing interest have chosen the all-electric version.

      Scout has strongly emphasized the truck-like features of its revived 4x4 brand. The Terra and Traveler will be body-on-frame EVs, equipped with solid rear axles and mechanical locking differentials. On the electric front, both will feature an 800-volt architecture designed for high-speed fast charging. Scout aims for both trucks to deliver 1,000 pound-feet of torque and accelerate to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, while also providing at least 350 miles of range for the all-electric variants. The “Harvester” range extender increases the single-charge range to 500 miles and, of course, offers the convenience of quick refueling.

      Scout aspires for both models to achieve a payload capacity of 2,000 pounds (surpassing the Rivian R1T and R1S). The Traveler is expected to support 7,000 pounds of towing capacity, while the Terra may exceed 10,000 pounds (for comparison, the R1S has a towing limit of 7,700 pounds, and the R1T goes up to 11,000 pounds). Meanwhile, the Ram 1500 REV is targeting a towing capacity of 14,000 pounds; it remains to be seen if that number will decrease with Ram’s own range extender.

      Nonetheless, there’s ample time for Scout to adjust details before production commences. Recent speculation indicates that production won’t begin until 2028.

      Note: This article was revised due to audio provided to The Drive from Scout, including Keogh’s exact comments and responses to Motor Trend’s inquiry. An earlier version incorrectly stated that Scout’s range-extended powertrain would reduce tow ratings by 50%.

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