Volkswagen is considering a partner to build its Scout model, according to a German-speaking company insider Automobilwoche. The company is in talks with Foxconn and Magna Steyr to handle model assembly. Automakers haven’t ruled out assembling these powerful EVs themselves, either.
Motor1.com reached out for comment. Scout didn’t answer.
If VW partners with Foxconn to build the Scout vehicle, assembly could take place at General Motors’ former factory in Lordstown, Ohio. Foxconn bought the factory from Lordstown Motors in May 2022 for $230 million. Later, the company announced a partnership with build electric tractor there starting in the first quarter of 2023.
VW wants to market the Scout model mainly in North America. If partnering with Magna Steyr, the two companies will jointly develop the vehicle Automobilwoche. Magna will allegedly build a factory to produce it in the US as well.
Insiders point out that VW building a factory specifically for Scout vehicles is the least likely option. Although, they didn’t give a reason why.
The first Scout model will arrive in 2026, but we will see a prototype in 2024. According to the brand’s plans, it will be a pickup truck with an electric powertrain. The teaser shows a truck with a boxy shape reminiscent of the brand’s styling from the 1970s. An EV SUV on the same platform will come later.
VW wants the Scout brand to eventually sell 250,000 vehicles a year. Technical details about this model are still a mystery.
Former Volkswagen Group of America President and CEO Scott Keogh will run the Scout brand. Although it is a subsidiary of VW, it is planned that this division will operate independently, including development and manufacturing.
As well as building farm tractors, industrial equipment and semi trucks, International Harvester also builds trucks and SUVs. The Scout made its debut for the 1961 model year as a rugged vehicle available in several body styles. The Jeep CJ series is one of its main competitors. The second generation lasted from 1971 to 1980.
