Scout Motors, the nascent electric truck brand born from the legendary International Harvester Scout, is gearing up for significant expansion by establishing a cutting-edge “Innovation Center” in Novi, Michigan. The strategic move positions Scout Motors to strengthen its focus on research and development, design, and engineering, cementing its presence in the thriving landscape of electric vehicle (EV) innovation.
The forthcoming Innovation Center, set to become the nerve center for Scout’s creative endeavors, will house its product, design, and engineering teams, fostering collaboration and cross-functional synergy. This strategic expansion aligns with Scout’s commitment to injecting fresh American ingenuity into the creation of a new era of iconic all-purpose electric vehicles.
Michigan, renowned for its deep automotive roots and a trailblazer in global EV and mobility development, emerged as the ideal location for Scout’s Innovation Center. The state’s remarkable investment in innovation, coupled with its ability to attract and cultivate a diverse and skilled workforce, played a pivotal role in Scout’s decision.
Scott Keogh, President and CEO of Scout Motors, emphasized the importance of Michigan’s automotive legacy, stating, “Our new vehicles will honor Scoutâs hard-working heritage while injecting fresh American ingenuity to create a new era of iconic all-purpose vehicles.”
The establishment of the Innovation Center is set to be supported by a performance-based grant under Michigan’s Business Development Program. This initiative underscores the state’s commitment to fostering innovation and has contributed to Michigan securing over $14 billion in electric vehicle and battery investments in the previous year.
Scout’s foray into Michigan is expected to generate approximately 200 new engineering jobs, contributing to the nearly 300 employees the brand has recruited since its inception in 2022. The Innovation Center will play a pivotal role in supporting Scout’s electric truck production facility, currently under construction in South Carolina.
