Austria’s Magna Steyr, known for assembling the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, has been chosen by the Volkswagen Group to develop its electric pickup truck and SUV, drawing inspiration from the International Harvester Scout, as reported by the local newspaper Kleine Zeitung.
Magna Steyr, a subsidiary of the Canadian automotive component giant Magna International, is renowned as a contract manufacturer, responsible for producing the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and a variety of other models, including the Fisker Ocean electric crossover.
Overview of Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV
In addition to manufacturing, Magna Steyr provides development services. The company played a pivotal role in the evolution of the latest Mercedes G-Class, including its forthcoming electric iteration. Magna Steyr’s portfolio also includes contributions to the Fisker Ocean crossover and Ineos’ Grenadier off-roader, along with past projects with VW Group during its Steyr-Puch era.
Kleine Zeitung has indicated that VW Group will compensate Magna Steyr with approximately 450 million euros (around $493 million) for the Scout EVs’ development, aiming to launch these vehicles in the U.S. market by 2027. Furthermore, a robust Audi SUV, potentially rivalling the G-Class and Land Rover Defender, may also emerge, built on the Scout’s platform.
Preview of Scout Motors’ Electric SUV and Pickup
According to Kleine Zeitung, VW Group intends to market the Scout models exclusively in the U.S., while Audi’s version is set for global distribution. The reports suggest that these vehicles could boast a range nearing 400 miles.
The manufacturing of these vehicles is slated for VW Group’s upcoming facility near Columbia, South Carolina. Announced earlier in the year, this plant represents an investment nearing $2 billion and is expected to produce 200,000 vehicles per year.
VW Group’s acquisition of the Scout name followed its purchase of Navistar, a successor to International Harvester, in 2020. Subsequently, in 2022, VW Group established Scout Motors in the U.S. to spearhead the development and marketing of the new Scout EVs.
VW Group has announced plans to unveil a Scout concept in 2024, targeting an initial price in the vicinity of $40,000. Additionally, the automaker has released teaser sketches, offering glimpses of the upcoming models.
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Scout EV development
Who is developing Volkswagen Group’s Scout EVs?
Magna Steyr, an Austrian contract manufacturer known for building the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, has been selected by Volkswagen Group to develop its electric pickup truck and SUV, inspired by the International Harvester Scout.
What vehicles has Magna Steyr previously developed?
Magna Steyr, a division of Magna International, has developed several vehicles including the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, Fisker Ocean electric crossover, and the Grenadier off-roader from Ineos. The company also has a history of working on projects for the VW Group.
When are the Scout EVs expected to be available for sale?
Volkswagen Group plans to have the Scout EVs, including an electric pickup truck and SUV, on sale in the U.S. by 2027.
What is the expected range of the Scout EVs?
The Scout EVs are reported to have a range approaching 400 miles.
Where will the Scout EVs be manufactured?
Production of the Scout EVs will take place at Volkswagen Group’s own plant, which is to be constructed near Columbia, South Carolina. The facility is expected to have an annual production capacity of 200,000 vehicles.
More about Scout EV development
- Magna Steyr’s Role in Scout EV Development
- Overview of Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV
- Magna Steyr’s Automotive Contributions
- Scout Motors Electric SUV and Pickup Concept
- Volkswagen Group’s Plant in South Carolina
- History of the Scout Name Acquisition by VW Group
6 comments
always thought the G-Class was something special, curious to see how Magna Steyr handles the Scout’s development
2027 seems so far away, hope the tech doesn’t become outdated by then
didn’t vw just build a new plant in south carolina? why are they developing in Austria, makes no sense
wow didn’t know Magna Steyr was involved in scout EVs too, they really do a lot in the auto industry huh?
is it true that these new EVs will have nearly 400 miles range? thats impressive!
Audi’s SUV on Scout underpinnings sounds interesting, wonder if it’ll match up to the G-Class in luxury.