The world’s coolest electric car brand? New off-road brand Scout teases all-electric Jeep Wrangler fighter
Scout Motors has teased a third model that will provide an all-electric alternative to the Land Rover Defender and Jeep Wrangler that could arrive soon, after the Scout Traveler SUV and Terra ute arrive in 2027.
Teased during the official reveal last week at the launch of both the SUV and ute, the Volkswagen-owned reborn 4×4 brand’s marketing boss suggested the third model could spin-off a two-door convertible to rival the Ford Bronco.
Sadly, the picture of the Scout Shorty was not revealed but attendees were instead shown a teaser of the model under drapes.
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Speaking to US site The Autopian, head of Scout Shaheen Karimian hinted that the topless Shorty was coming:
“It is true a smaller subset of customers are saying they want that removable roof experience,” he said.
“Doesn’t mean we can’t do one in the future, on say a vehicle with fewer doors and a shorter wheelbase.”
Karimian admitted that a removable roof panel had been considered for the larger Traveler but ruled out over its weight.
Like the SUV and ute, the Scout Shorty is expected to sit on the same rugged ladder-frame chassis and come with cutting edge 800-volt electronics for ultra-fast charging at beyond 350kW.
With less weight, we expect the range to top 600km (up from 560km for the SUV), while versions with the optional combustion-powered range-extender should be able to travel around 850km with a full charge and tank full of fuel.
With standard all-wheel drive and the SUV’s dual-motor powertrain that has already been confirmed will churn out more than 1365Nm of torque, the Scout Shorty should offer a near-supercar-quick 0-100km/h dash of around 3.5 seconds.
Towing should be another highlight although its payload might be limited by its reduced bed.
Like its siblings, expect the Scout Shorty to pay homage to the Scout 4x4s made from 1960-1980 that were made by the US International Harvester brand.
Timings are unconfirmed but the short-wheel base 4×4 should land after the introduction of the Traveler and Terra in 2027. There is no plan for Australia at this point, but right-hand-drive manufacturing is thought likely, although nothing’s confirmed.
