People across the United States took to the outdoors like never before during the country’s adventure boom in the 1960s and ’70s. It was an unprecedented era of exploration, and it needed a vehicle to match. Enter International Harvester’s Scout® vehicles. Born from a desire to create a truck that could go anywhere and do anything, the first Scout model debuted in 1960. Over the next two decades, the brand set a new standard for durability and versatility. For work, play, and family duty, the Scout vehicles were embraced by everyone from farmers to boaters and became a symbol of freedom and rugged independence for a generation of adventurers. Now, Scout Motors is reimagining the brand, connecting its heritage to modern ingenuity. We caught up with Ryan Decker, vice president of strategy and brand at Scout Motors, to get the details on how this iconic vehicle is leveraging new technology and building on its vibrant community.

　　Outside: What’s the story of Scout’s rebirth?

　　Ryan Decker: Scout Motors was formed in 2022 to craft the next era of Scout vehicles, rooted in the same tradition that made the original an American icon. The Scout brand and vehicles have always been about community. One of Scout Motors’ first priorities was to invite nearly a dozen Scout community members to a gathering to say thanks for keeping the Scout spirit alive, show them our early design models, and listen to their feedback. Beyond that, our original intent was clear: 1) Reimagine the iconic Scout brand and grow its community of passionate fans, and 2) design and develop highly credible vehicles in the core of the U.S. market.

　　What makes Scout Motors unique?

　　The Scout products and brand can be summarized as “Connection Machines.” The Scout vehicles connect American truck heritage with modern ingenuity. Body-on-frame architecture and a solid rear axle meet electric torque and over-the-air updates. Including features such as an optional bench seat and intuitive, easy-to-use technology, Scout vehicles connect drivers with their passengers. Tactile switches, knobs, and handles also help connect Scout drivers with their vehicle.

　　Another priority is that Scout Motors, as a company, connects with its community. Whether we are engaging on our community forums, visiting IH Scout and All Truck Nationals in Springfield, Ohio, or sponsoring the Vintage Race Terra for the Baja 1000 rally, we want to create moments of meaningful connection between Scout Motors and the broader Scout community—to listen, to learn from them, and to make new fans.

　　What’s ahead for Scout Motors?

　　Like everything we’ve done to date, the next chapter at Scout Motors will be defined by rolled-up sleeves, hard work, and the intent to build something lasting. We’re building a multibillion-dollar production center in Blythewood, South Carolina, that spans over 1,000 acres and is projected to create more than 4,000 good-paying jobs and produce 200,000-plus vehicles per year. We’re designing and developing the Traveler™ SUV and Terra™ pickup truck. We’re building a retail model that offers trust, transparency, and the best possible customer experience. Ultimately, we’re building a totally new system to deliver vehicles, service them, and earn customer loyalty.

　　What models are launching first?

　　Scout Motors will launch the Scout Traveler SUV and Terra truck. The Traveler and Terra are designed to compete in the core of the U.S. market—rugged SUVs and full-size trucks. Both products share priorities, the first being to honor the credibility that Scout vehicles delivered from 1961 to 1980 and inject that heritage with modern performance and technology. From payload and towing to torque and zero-to-60 times to accessories and built-in power outlets, the Scout Traveler and Terra will be able to work hard and play hard. Both vehicles will be available in all-electric models or with the Harvester™ powertrain, which includes a gas-powered generator projected to give Scout vehicles more than 500 miles of combined range. Lastly, Scout vehicles were always best experienced together. An optional bench seat and our Community UX ensure that the Scout Traveler and Terra remain Connection Machines.

　　How do you join the Scout community?

　　First, we hope you do. We want to hear from you directly, and there are many ways you can engage with our team. Similar to how we showed up at the Outside Festival, we plan on getting the Scout brand and products out into the world to meet our customers and community where they are. Come see us and say hello! Second, we are building a highly engaged community forum. We participate in online discussions daily and invite you to engage with us on social media. Third, you can subscribe to our email communications at scoutmotors.com—we plan on providing meaningful updates about our company’s progress to our handraisers. And finally, you can reserve your spot in line for a Scout Traveler or Terra—or both—at scoutmotors.com.

　　Scout Motors was formed to craft the next era of trucks and rugged SUVs rooted in the same tradition that made the original Scout vehicle an American icon. Scout Motors is revitalizing a legend and returning manufacturing to American shores. Initial production is targeted to begin at the Scout Motors Production Center near Columbia, South Carolina, in 2027.