## Scout, the Volkswagen-backed revival of 4×4 brand International Harvester, to reveal first cars on 24 October
Scout, the Volkswagen-backed revival of 4×4 brand International Harvester, is set to reveal its first cars on 24 October. The brand will unveil an electric rival for the Land Rover Defender and Ford Bronco, as well as a closely related pick-up to take on the Rivian R1T and Ford F-150 Lightning. The high-riding 4×4 and pick-up will feature retro-futuristic designs inspired by the International Harvester Scout II, which was produced between 1971 and 1980. The vehicles will be built at a new plant in South Carolina, US, and will be based on a new ladder-frame platform that’s unrelated to the MEB and PPE architectures used for electric cars by its Volkswagen Group parent company. Audi is also considering using the Scout platform and factory for its own electric 4×4. The first Scouts will roll off the production line in 2026, with the VW Group planning to gradually increase the factory’s output to 200,000 cars annually.
## The retro-futuristic design of the Scouts
The Scouts, set to be unveiled by Scout, the Volkswagen-backed revival of 4×4 brand International Harvester, will feature retro-futuristic designs inspired by the International Harvester Scout II. The preview images released by the company show that the vehicles will have squared-off designs with vertically stacked tail-lights and kinked C-pillars. They will also wear chunky all-terrain tires, although more road-focused options may be available as well. This design direction sets them apart from their competitors in the electric 4×4 and pick-up market.
## The use of a new ladder-frame platform
The Scouts, produced by Scout, the Volkswagen-backed revival of 4×4 brand International Harvester, will be based on a new ladder-frame platform. This platform is said to be completely unrelated to the MEB and PPE architectures used for electric cars by its Volkswagen Group parent company. This new platform offers the opportunity for Scout to create a unique and capable 4×4 and pick-up, tailored specifically to meet the demands of off-road enthusiasts. By developing a dedicated platform for these vehicles, Scout can ensure they have the necessary strength and ruggedness to excel in challenging off-road conditions.
## Potential partnership with Audi
As previously reported by Autocar, Audi is considering whether to use the Scout platform and factory for its own hardy electric 4×4. This potential partnership between Scout and Audi highlights the versatility and potential of the Scout platform. By sharing resources and expertise, Scout and Audi can bring their respective electric 4x4s to market more efficiently and effectively. This collaboration could also result in cost savings and technological advancements that benefit both brands and their customers.
## Volkswagen Group’s investment in Scout rival Rivian
The Volkswagen Group recently announced an investment of up to $5 billion in Scout rival Rivian. This investment gives Rivian critical funding for the development of its upcoming R2 SUV and R3 crossover. In exchange, Rivian will provide the Volkswagen Group with expertise in software-defined vehicles. This investment demonstrates the Volkswagen Group’s commitment to the electric 4×4 and pick-up market. By supporting both Scout and Rivian, the Volkswagen Group aims to become a relevant player in the highly attractive pick-up and SUV segment in the US market.
## About the author
Charlie Martin is an editorial assistant at Autocar, where he plays a key role in the coverage of new car launches and industry events. He is also a regular contributor to Autocar’s social media channels, providing videos for Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Twitter. Charlie joined Autocar in July 2022 after completing an apprenticeship with sister publication What Car? He is a proud owner of a Fiat Panda 100HP and is passionate about cars and the automotive industry. His experience and knowledge make him a trusted source of information and insights in the automotive field.
In conclusion, the upcoming debut of Scout’s electric 4×4 and pick-up is highly anticipated. With their retro-futuristic design, unique ladder-frame platform, and potential partnership with Audi, these vehicles have the potential to make a significant impact in the electric 4×4 and pick-up market. The Volkswagen Group’s investment in Scout rival Rivian further illustrates the company’s commitment to this segment. As the first Scouts roll off the production line in 2026, we can expect to see a new era of capable and sustainable off-road vehicles.