Volkswagen Partners with Magna Steyr to Develop Its First Two EVs in the U.S.

Volkswagen is making headlines with its announcement of reviving the iconic American Scout name and its plans to produce electric vehicles (EVs) under this brand at a facility in South Carolina starting in 2026. To ensure the success of this venture, Volkswagen has decided to outsource production to Magna Steyr, a renowned automotive supplier responsible for building the G-Class for Mercedes and the Ocean for Fisker, as reported by Automotive News Europe.

Investment in Development and Production

Volkswagen has allocated $492 million (450 million euros) for the development and production of these EVs. While specific details about the models that Magna will be responsible for have not been disclosed, Volkswagen has already mentioned that its first two models will be an electric SUV and a pickup truck priced at $40,000. These models are expected to be the starting point for the revival of the Scout brand.

Hiring and Expansion

As Volkswagen gears up for production, Scout is actively hiring new talent. The company has numerous open positions in Detroit, primarily in design and engineering, as well as various tech and logistics roles in California and South Carolina.

Preserving the Legacy of Scout

In 2020, Volkswagen acquired the Scout name when it purchased Navistar. The Scout name has a rich history spanning nearly two decades and is synonymous with hardcore, old-school off-roading. These vehicles are highly sought-after today and command a premium in the classic car market. While it remains uncertain how Volkswagen will approach this legacy, the company has pledged to retain the beloved attitude and feel that people associate with Scouts.

[Image: VW/Scout]

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