I Think This Small SC Town Will Boom With The Groundbreaking Of Scout Motors, And The Launch Of The Scout Terra and Traveler

On February 15, 2024, Scout Motors officially broke ground on its $2 billion electric vehicle (EV) production facility in Blythewood, South Carolina. This milestone marked the beginning of a transformative project that aims to revive the iconic Scout brand while reshaping the EV landscape in the United States. The event celebrated not just a new factory but also the rebirth of an American automotive legend.

Once operational, the facility will produce up to 200,000 vehicles annually and create over 4,000 permanent jobs, making it one of the largest economic development projects in Richland County’s history.

A Celebration of Heritage and Progress

The groundbreaking ceremony was a carefully curated blend of nostalgia and forward-thinking ambition. Scout Motors executives, including CEO Scott Keogh, were joined by South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster and members of the local community. The event featured several original Scout vehicles as a nod to the brand’s rugged past, alongside virtual renderings and a 3D model of the upcoming production center.

A symbolic brick from Scout’s original Fort Wayne factory was presented during the ceremony. This brick will be incorporated into the new facility’s foundation, symbolizing a bridge between Scout’s history and its electrified future.

Keogh emphasized that this project is about more than just building vehicles:  

"Today is less about construction and a building and more about a calling and a community. We’re here to celebrate the revitalization of an American icon and the reshoring of American jobs."

Why It Took Time to Break Ground

Scout Motors first announced its plans for the Blythewood facility in March 2023. However, large-scale projects like this often face delays due to planning, permitting, and logistical challenges. The site spans 1,600 acres, 1,100 of which will house the production center, and required extensive preparation work before construction could begin. This included grading millions of cubic yards of dirt, stabilizing soil, relocating utilities, and designing infrastructure upgrades such as a $150 million interstate interchange to improve access to the plant.

Economic Impact on Blythewood

The $2 billion investment is expected to have far-reaching economic benefits for Blythewood and beyond. Once operational in late 2026, the facility will employ over 4,000 people in high-paying roles ranging from assembly line workers to engineers specializing in EV technology.

Governor McMaster highlighted these benefits during his remarks at the groundbreaking:  

"This facility is more than just an investment in our state; it’s an investment in our people. It will provide thousands of high-paying jobs and solidify South Carolina as a leader in advanced manufacturing."

In addition to direct employment, thousands more jobs are expected to be created indirectly through construction contracts and supplier partnerships. Local businesses are already benefiting from increased activity in the area.

A Strategic Location

Blythewood was chosen for its strategic location near major transportation routes like Interstate 77 and ports in Charleston and Savannah. These logistical advantages will ensure efficient shipping of raw materials into the plant and finished vehicles out to customers across North America.

The site is also close to talent hubs like Columbia and Charlotte, giving Scout Motors access to a skilled workforce. To prepare for operations, Scout has partnered with local colleges and technical schools to develop training programs tailored to its needs.

Community Engagement: Building Trust

Scout Motors has made significant efforts to engage with Blythewood residents throughout this process. Since announcing its plans in 2023, the company has hosted multiple community forums to provide updates on construction progress and address concerns about environmental impacts and traffic management.

These forums have also served as opportunities for residents to see concept versions of Scout’s upcoming vehicles; the Traveler SUV and Terra truck, up close. These all-electric models aim to blend modern performance with classic Scout ruggedness.

One local resident praised Scout’s transparency:  

"Scout seems genuinely invested in making this project beneficial for everyone."  

Reviving an Iconic Brand

Originally introduced by International Harvester in 1961 as one of America’s first SUVs, Scouts became synonymous with off-road durability before production ceased in 1980. Now under Volkswagen Group ownership, Scout Motors is bringing this iconic nameplate back, but with an electric twist.

The Traveler SUV and Terra truck will be built on a newly designed body-on-frame EV platform that promises best-in-class off-road capability. Early previews have generated excitement among buyers eager for vehicles that combine ruggedness with sustainability.

Challenges Ahead

Despite its promise, Scout Motors faces challenges as it enters an increasingly competitive EV market dominated by players like Ford (F-150 Lightning) and Rivian (R1T). To succeed, Scout must deliver vehicles that not only honor its heritage but also offer compelling features at competitive prices.

Supply chain issues remain another concern. Ensuring access to critical components like batteries will be essential for keeping production on schedule once operations begin.

Looking Ahead

As construction progresses at Blythewood, excitement continues to build around what this project represents—not just for South Carolina but for the entire automotive industry. By late 2026, when Scouts start rolling off assembly lines once again, this time powered by electricity, it won’t just be another product launch; it’ll be proof that even legends can evolve without losing their soul.

For now, all eyes are on Blythewood as this historic transformation unfolds, one steel beam at a time.

Images courtesy of Scout Motors 

Mikey Garcia has been passionate about cars and alternative fuels long before they were mainstream, from closely following the GM EV1 to running biodiesel in his Volkswagen Beetle TDI and Mercedes 300SD. As an early EV adopter, he drove a 2015 Fiat 500e and now owns a 2017 Chevy Bolt, showcasing his commitment to accessible electric mobility. With nearly a decade of tech experience at Apple, Mikey brings a unique perspective to the intersection of automotive innovation, sustainability, and technology. You can reach him on X and LinkedIn to follow him, or to send him news tips.