Scout Motors, an American automotive company owned by German Manufacturer Volkswagen, is gearing up to introduce its first two electric vehicles Traveler SUV and the Terra Pickup. The two vehicles are set for production in 2027 and they are already gaining attention due to their rugged, battery-powered driving experience. However, before 2027, Scout is preparing to offer a version for consumers who need extra range. This version will be known as the harvester range extender.
What is Scout’s Harvester Range Extender?
The Harvester Range Extender will have a gasoline-powered generator integrated into the vehicle’s platform, modified to charge the battery thus increasing the range significantly. The Harvester version will push the range to 500 miles, an increase from the 350 miles that the standard all-electric model offers.
How?
Instead of powering the wheels directly as is the case in traditional gasoline-powered vehicles, it will act as a generator designed to recharge the battery. This technology will reduce anxiety among drivers, especially when doing long trips in remote locations. The engine is positioned strategically behind the rear axle, minimizing noise and vibration, thus making this vehicle quiet and smooth to ride.
This range-extending technology will be extremely beneficial for overlanders, adventurers, and professionals who have to travel to off-grid areas. Additionally, it will be an ideal vehicle for those who need to tow heavy loads over long distances without worrying about the limitations of charging infrastructure.
Volkswagen’s Contribution to the Harvester REX
The CEO of Scout Motors, Scott Keogh, has confirmed that the company will likely source the engine from Volkswagen to leverage its extensive engineering resources. Harvester has been in existence for a while now and VW is committed to reviving this brand with modern electric technology. They expect the Range Extender to play a crucial role in making Scout EVs viable for real-time work applications.
VW’s experience with modular vehicle platforms could make Harvester Systems scalable in the future, meaning that the technology could be integrated into future Scout models or other VW vehicles.
Adding a Rugged Version to the Range Extender Concept
The Range extender is not a new idea in the EV world, and previously, BMW used a small gasoline engine in its i3 version to double its driving range. Besides BMW, other automakers have also experimented with this concept. However, Scout’s Harvesters will be the first to offer a rugged and off-road capability designed for heavy-duty applications.
The Good about the Harvester HEX
- The Harvester HEX will offer an extended range of up to 500 miles on a single charge. This will make this model ideal for long-distance and off-road experiences.
- The harvester HEX will offer up to 7,000 lbs. of towing capacity and bidirectional charging, making them ideal for power tools and campsites.
The Bad About the Harvester HEX
- The Harvester HEX will have more weight than the standard versions, which affects its efficiency and requires additional maintenance.
- Unlike the fully electric vehicle, the Harvester HEX will emit carbon like the traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.
- While many consumers might prefer a pure EV experience, the Harvester range will be an appealing option, particularly for drivers who frequently take long trips.