Scout Motors Is Finding Its Way
About this episode
Scout Motors is making waves by reviving the iconic Scout SUV brand under the Volkswagen Group. With a new headquarters in Charlotte and a factory in South Carolina, Scout aims to produce electric and hybrid off-road vehicles. Vice President Ryan Decker discusses the brand's origins, the strategic pivot towards range-extended electric vehicles, and the unique features of their upcoming models, including solid rear axles and impressive range capabilities. The episode dives into the challenges of starting a new car company and the excitement surrounding Scout's innovative approach to the American SUV market.
Gary and Alex are joined by Scout Motors Vice President of Strategy and Brand Ryan Decker to talk about the startup US-based truck company's history and future as it prepares to launch a lineup of electric and extended-range electric off-road SUVs. Chuck Shifsky, National Manager of Honda and Acura motorsports also drops in to discuss Honda's new deal with IndyCar to remain an engine supplier for years to come.
NASCAR
"I know you saw the Daytona 500 as I did and we're going to be dissecting that kickoff to the NASCAR season later in the show"
NASCAR is a type of car racing that happens in the United States, where specially designed cars race on oval tracks.
NASCAR stands for the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, and it is a popular motorsport organization in the United States known for its stock car racing events.
Daytona 500
"I know you saw the Daytona 500 as I did and we're going to be dissecting that kickoff to the NASCAR season later in the show"
The Daytona 500 is a famous car race that takes place every year in Florida, and it's a big event for NASCAR fans.
The Daytona 500 is one of the most prestigious races in NASCAR, held annually at the Daytona International Speedway in Florida, marking the start of the NASCAR season.
Honda
"...we're going to be talking to Chuck Schiffsky, the national manager of Honda and Acura Motorsports in the US about the deal and what it means for Honda."
Honda is a car company from Japan that makes cars and motorcycles. They are known for making dependable vehicles and are also involved in racing.
Honda is a well-known Japanese automotive manufacturer recognized for its reliable cars and motorcycles. The company is also involved in motorsports, providing engines for various racing series.
electric vehicle
"...we talk about other types of vehicles, including electric vehicles. But this week we're going to be talking about..."
An electric vehicle is a car that runs on electricity instead of gasoline. They are better for the environment and can save money on fuel.
An electric vehicle (EV) is a type of vehicle that is powered entirely or partially by electricity, using electric motors instead of internal combustion engines. EVs are known for being environmentally friendly and often have lower operating costs.
hybrid vehicle
"...we're going to be talking about electric vehicle that can also run on gas. Can you believe that?"
A hybrid vehicle is a car that can use both gasoline and electricity to run. This helps it use less fuel and produce less pollution.
A hybrid vehicle is a type of vehicle that uses more than one form of power, typically combining an internal combustion engine with an electric motor. This allows for improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to traditional gasoline-only vehicles.
Scout brand
"...the Volkswagen group acquired the Scout brand or the rights to the Scout..."
The Scout brand is a name that used to belong to a company that made off-road vehicles. Volkswagen is bringing it back for new electric SUVs, which is part of a trend to make more electric cars.
The Scout brand originally referred to a line of off-road vehicles produced by International Harvester in the 1960s and 1970s. It has been revived by Volkswagen for a new line of electric and electrified SUVs, reflecting a growing trend in the automotive industry towards electric vehicles.
Volkswagen
"the Volkswagen group, not with the Volkswagen brand. So again, a minor thing, but I do want to"
Volkswagen is a well-known car brand from Germany that makes many different types of cars.
Volkswagen is a major German automotive manufacturer known for producing a wide range of vehicles, including the iconic Beetle and Golf models.
International Harvester
"So to go way back when to the beginning, you have to look at where Scout came from, right? International Harvester. At one point, IH was basically one of the world's most valuable companies..."
International Harvester was a big company in the U.S. that made farming equipment and vehicles. They created the Scout, which helped start the SUV trend.
International Harvester was a major American manufacturer of agricultural machinery, construction equipment, and vehicles. It played a significant role in the development of the SUV category with its Scout model.
Scout
"... passenger vehicles that for several decades, sort of defined became the SUV category as we know it. That started with the Scout."
The Scout was an early type of SUV made by International Harvester. It was popular for being tough and useful for many different activities.
The Scout was one of the first SUVs, produced by International Harvester from 1961 to 1980. It helped define the SUV category and was known for its ruggedness and versatility.
Hyundai Genesis
"...nded up with the rights to Scout. So what was the genesis of rebooting it? Was Volkswagen Group thinking w..."
The Hyundai Genesis is a fancy car that feels very nice to drive and has lots of cool features. It’s a good choice if you want a luxury car without spending too much money.
The Hyundai Genesis is a luxury sedan that offers a combination of performance, comfort, and advanced technology. It has been praised for its value in the luxury segment, often compared to more expensive brands.
pickup trucks
"...the largest American segments, which are pickup trucks and more rugged SUVs. And these are large segments in terms of volume..."
Pickup trucks are vehicles with a separate cab and an open area in the back for carrying things. They're popular for work and outdoor activities because they can carry a lot of stuff.
Pickup trucks are a popular vehicle type in America, known for their open cargo beds and versatility for both work and leisure. They are often used for transporting goods and are favored by those who need a rugged vehicle for various tasks.
rugged SUVs
"...pickup trucks and more rugged SUVs. And these are large segments in terms of volume..."
Rugged SUVs are tough vehicles built to drive on rough roads and off-road. They are good for outdoor adventures and can handle difficult conditions better than regular cars.
Rugged SUVs are sport utility vehicles designed for off-road capabilities and durability. They often feature higher ground clearance, four-wheel drive, and robust construction to handle rough terrains and outdoor activities.
Scout Motors
"...So that, of course, came with the decision to do ground up new platform that came with the decision to do a greenfield factory... Scout isn't just a brand. Scout Motors is a completely new independent company..."
Scout Motors is a new car company that makes tough vehicles for off-road driving. It's based on a brand that used to be popular for making strong and reliable cars.
Scout Motors is a new independent automotive company focused on producing off-road vehicles, reviving the legacy of the original Scout brand known for its ruggedness and versatility.
Buick Century
"...ersions last fall. They really do look like 21st century versions of the old Scouts. You've got the Terro..."
The Buick Century is a comfortable car that many families like to drive. It’s known for being reliable and has a classic look that appeals to a lot of people.
The Buick Century is a mid-size car that has been known for its comfort and reliability over the years. It has a classic design and has been a popular choice for families looking for a dependable vehicle.
solid rear axles
"...plus some old school features. You've got solid rear axles. We haven't seen this..."
Solid rear axles are a part of the car that connects the back wheels together. This helps the car stay strong and stable, especially when driving off-road.
Solid rear axles are a type of vehicle suspension design where the rear wheels are connected by a single axle, providing strength and stability, especially useful for off-road driving.
four by four drive train
"...They both have four by four drive trains and up to 350 miles of range plus some old school features..."
A four by four drive train means that all four wheels of the vehicle can move at the same time. This helps the car drive better on rough or slippery surfaces.
A four by four drive train, or 4x4, is a type of vehicle drivetrain that allows all four wheels to receive power from the engine simultaneously, improving traction and control on rough terrain.
EREV
"has a unique opportunity to define itself around EREV leadership. And what I mean by that is our engineers know how to engineer these things."
An EREV is a special kind of electric car that can also use a gas engine to help it go further when the battery runs out. This means you don't have to worry as much about running out of power while driving.
EREV stands for Extended Range Electric Vehicle, which is a type of electric vehicle that uses a small internal combustion engine to generate electricity and extend the driving range beyond that of a typical electric vehicle. This allows for greater flexibility and reduces range anxiety for drivers.
zero to 60 times
"You can still get really exciting zero to 60 times,"
Zero to 60 time is how long it takes a car to go from a complete stop to going 60 miles per hour. It's a way to measure how fast a car can speed up.
'Zero to 60 time' refers to the time it takes for a vehicle to accelerate from a complete stop to 60 miles per hour. It's a common performance metric used to gauge a car's acceleration capabilities.
American brand
"It's an actual American brand. Headquartered here. Vehicles could be built here."
An American brand is a car company that is based in the United States. These companies often make cars that are popular with American customers.
An American brand refers to a vehicle manufacturer that is headquartered in the United States and often produces vehicles domestically. These brands are significant in the automotive industry for their contributions to the economy and culture.
Toyota A90
"very difficult in this environment to launch an electrified brand. The fact that Scout had the e-rev option from Go is super duper important. It would not shock me if this is a 90% plus e-rev brand to the point where it almost would make sense for that just to be what it is, because"
The Toyota Supra is a fast and stylish sports car that many people admire. It's famous for being fun to drive and has a long history of being a favorite among car enthusiasts.
The Toyota Supra is a legendary sports car known for its performance and distinctive design. It has a rich history dating back to the 1970s and has become an icon in the automotive world, often discussed for its powerful engine options and handling capabilities.
charging anxiety
"...zero charging anxiety, any of that stuff, because there's always a solution no matter where you are."
Charging anxiety is the worry that you might run out of battery power in an electric car before you find a place to recharge it. This can make people hesitant to buy electric cars.
Charging anxiety refers to the fear or concern that an electric vehicle owner may have about running out of battery power before reaching a charging station. This is a common issue for potential electric vehicle buyers.
Jeep Wagoneer
"...-revs, or they call them revs, this year with the Wagoneer and the Ram 1500. Folks, for those of you who ar..."
The Jeep Wagoneer is a big SUV that can handle tough terrain and is also very comfortable inside. It’s great for families and adventures, with lots of room for passengers and gear.
The Jeep Wagoneer is a full-size SUV that combines rugged off-road capability with modern luxury features. It has made a comeback in recent years, often discussed for its spacious interior and advanced technology.
Ram 1500
"...hem revs, this year with the Wagoneer and the Ram 1500. Folks, for those of you who aren't familiar, al..."
The Ram 1500 is a big truck that can carry heavy loads and is great for both work and family use. It’s known for being comfortable to drive and has lots of modern features.
The Ram 1500 is a full-size pickup truck known for its strong performance, comfortable ride, and advanced technology features. It's often discussed for its versatility, making it a popular choice for both work and everyday driving.
Chevrolet Volt
"... The BMW i3 Rex range extended was another. Chevy Volt, obviously. Well, Chevy Volt, technically a rang..."
The Chevrolet Volt is a car that can run on electricity or gas, which means you can drive it without worrying about running out of battery too quickly. It’s a good option if you want to save on fuel and reduce emissions.
The Chevrolet Volt is a plug-in hybrid that combines an electric motor with a gasoline engine, allowing for extended driving range. It was one of the first mainstream hybrids to offer this technology, making it a significant player in the shift towards electrification.
Bmw I3
"...ffered this. The Fisker Karma was the first. The BMW i3 Rex range extended was another. Chevy Volt, obvio..."
The BMW i3 is a small electric car that's different from most because it has a special feature that helps it go further when the battery runs low. It’s designed to be eco-friendly and has a cool, modern look.
The BMW i3 is an electric vehicle that stands out for its unique design and sustainable materials. It was one of the first electric cars to offer a range extender option, allowing for longer trips without the need for frequent charging.
300 miles range
"...I mean, 300 miles range baseline, even without the additional..."
When we say a car has a 300 miles range, it means you can drive it for about 300 miles before needing to recharge the battery. This can change depending on how you drive and the conditions.
A 300 miles range refers to the distance an electric vehicle can travel on a single charge. This range can vary based on driving conditions, battery size, and vehicle efficiency.
daily driver
"...most people are driving their daily drivers far less than that. They're never going to run out of range if they're not going off road..."
A daily driver is just a car that you use every day for normal activities like going to work or shopping. It's usually a car that's easy to drive and dependable.
A daily driver refers to a vehicle that is used regularly for everyday transportation, such as commuting to work or running errands. It's typically reliable and practical for frequent use.
Rivian
"...getting bigger batteries in electric vehicles like the Rivians could cost you 10 grand extra or more..."
Rivian is a company that makes electric trucks and SUVs. Their vehicles are designed for outdoor adventures and are environmentally friendly.
Rivian is an American electric vehicle manufacturer known for its all-electric trucks and SUVs, particularly the R1T and R1S models. They focus on adventure-oriented features and sustainability.
Indy500
"And that includes lots of championships. Indy500 wins 16 of them and counting, including this past year, with Chip Ganassi racing and Alex Polo."
The Indy 500 is a famous car race that takes place every year in Indianapolis. It's known for being very long and exciting, with many cars racing at high speeds.
The Indy 500 is one of the most prestigious automobile races in the world, held annually at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, featuring 500 miles of racing.
Chip Ganassi Racing
"...including this past year, with Chip Ganassi racing and Alex Polo."
Chip Ganassi Racing is a well-known racing team that competes in IndyCar and other racing events. They have a history of winning many races.
Chip Ganassi Racing is a prominent racing team in IndyCar, known for its competitive performance and numerous championships in various racing series.
Penske Corporation
"...we decided to renew, as you said, a multi-year agreement with the Penske organization and IndyCar, the owners of IndyCar."
Penske Corporation is a big company that owns racing teams and is involved in car racing, especially in the IndyCar series.
Penske Corporation is a major player in the automotive and motorsports industries, owning various racing teams and being involved in the IndyCar series.
win on Sunday, sell on Monday
"...yes, the win on Sunday sell on Monday is certainly still alive with Honda. They got the new chassis coming in 2028..."
This saying means that if a car company wins races, it helps them sell more cars to regular people. Winning makes the brand look good and attracts buyers.
The phrase 'win on Sunday, sell on Monday' refers to the marketing strategy where success in motorsports translates to increased sales of consumer vehicles. It suggests that winning races enhances brand image and attracts customers to buy the cars associated with that success.
chassis
"...So basically the chassis, they've delayed one year on the chassis..."
The chassis is the main structure of a car that holds everything together, like the engine and wheels. It's important for how the car drives and how safe it is.
The chassis is the base frame of a vehicle, which supports the body and components like the engine and suspension. It plays a crucial role in the vehicle's handling, safety, and overall performance.
electrification
"...almost every vehicle that is being sold now, there's some kind of a hybrid or electrification component to it..."
Electrification means adding electric power to cars, which helps them use less gas and be better for the environment. This can be done with hybrid cars or fully electric ones.
Electrification refers to the process of incorporating electric power into vehicles, either through hybrid systems or fully electric powertrains. This trend is aimed at reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering emissions.
Dallara
"...The actual chassis itself will be done by Delara, which is the company that is doing the current chassis..."
Dallara is a company that makes race car parts and complete cars, especially for racing series like IndyCar. They are known for creating high-performance vehicles.
Dallara is an Italian company known for designing and manufacturing racing cars and chassis, particularly in open-wheel racing series like IndyCar. They have a reputation for innovation and performance in motorsport.
twin turbo V6
"...we use a 2.2 liter twin turbo V6. So this will be an all brand new engine for us. And we're definitely excited."
A twin turbo V6 engine has two turbochargers that boost the engine's power. This means the car can go faster and use fuel more efficiently than engines without turbos.
A twin turbo V6 engine features two turbochargers that help increase the engine's power output by forcing more air into the combustion chamber. This setup allows for better performance and efficiency compared to a naturally aspirated engine.
Request an Explanation
Heard something you'd like explained? We'll add it to this episode.
Sign in to request explanations for terms you heard.
Want to learn more?
Browse our glossary for plain-English explanations of automotive terms, jargon, and concepts.
Help improve this episode
See something that's not quite right? Our annotations are AI-generated and can sometimes miss the mark. Click the flag icon on any annotation to suggest a correction.