What’s Happening: Scout Motors Inc. is planning to build its first manufacturing plant in Columbia, South Carolina, to produce next-generation trucks and rugged SUVs similar to the iconic Scout vehicles produced from 1960 to 1980. The plant is expected to create over 4,000 permanent jobs and have the capacity to produce more than 200,000 vehicles annually. The site, which spans approximately 1,600 acres, will be built on a newly designed all-electric platform with groundbreaking planned for mid-2023 and production to begin by the end of 2026.
Why It Matters: The $2 billion investment by Scout Motors will bring thousands of job opportunities to South Carolinians and re-establish an iconic American brand. South Carolina is already a leader in the global automotive industry, with over 500 automotive-related companies and 75,000 automotive industry employees. The state’s commitment to becoming the epicenter of electric vehicle innovation will further boost its reputation in the industry.
Key Points:
- Scout Motors is establishing its first manufacturing plant near Columbia, South Carolina, to build next-generation trucks and rugged SUVs.
- The investment has the potential to create over 4,000 permanent jobs and produce more than 200,000 vehicles annually.
- South Carolina is a global leader in the automotive industry, with over 500 automotive-related companies and 75,000 automotive industry employees.
- The state is committed to becoming the epicenter of electric vehicle innovation, with plans to prioritize building EV infrastructure, preparing the state workforce for advanced manufacturing jobs, and organizing EV planning under a centralized state working group.
- Scout’s trucks and rugged SUVs will be built on a newly designed all-electric platform, with groundbreaking planned for mid-2023 and production to begin by the end of 2026.
- Scout Motors is an independent U.S. company, backed by Volkswagen Group, with an experienced Board of Directors.
Bottom Line: Scout Motors’ decision to establish its manufacturing plant in South Carolina is a significant move that will bring thousands of job opportunities and re-establish an iconic American brand. With the state’s commitment to becoming a leader in electric vehicle innovation, the move will further boost South Carolina’s reputation in the global automotive industry.
