Friday, March 3, 2023
COLUMBIA, S.C. (March 3, 2023) – The Richland County Economic Development Office is pleased to
announce that Scout Motors Inc. (“Scout”), makers of the next-generation of all-electric trucks and
rugged SUVs, has decided to establish its manufacturing operations in Blythewood.
The company’s planned $2 billion investment has the potential to create 4,000 or more permanent jobs,
both of which would set new all-time records for a Richland County economic development project.
Scout is planning to break ground on the new manufacturing facility in Blythewood Industrial Park in
mid-2023 and begin production by the end of 2026.
“This proposed manufacturing facility marks a major milestone in the history of Richland County and the
potential for our most significant economic development project to date,” said Overture Walker, Chair of
the Richland County Council. “This decision represents a transformational breakthrough that would
position us at the forefront of the clean energy future while promising to boost the quality of life for
residents across our County for generations to come.”
The state of South Carolina and Richland County plan to make significant investments to infrastructure
and roads to support this project. Richland County plans to dedicate funding to upgrade the Blythewood
Fire Station. As part of the County’s incentive package, employees at Scout would be eligible for stipends
to support employees’ childcare. Richland County Council is scheduled to give the package third reading
on March 21.
“Richland County has spent years laying the groundwork for today’s historic announcement, and we are
thrilled that Scout shares our view that this area is the ideal location for a world-class company to plant
its flag,” said Jeff Ruble, Director of the Richland County Economic Development Office. “With our
supportive business development network, vibrant workforce, culture of innovation, and connectivity to
key strategic hubs, Richland County has created a strong economic foundation that Scout would be able
to build upon in the years to come.”
Originally produced by International Harvester from 1960 to 1980, Scout was the world’s first utility
vehicle capable of both off-road adventure and family duty. Building on that celebrated legacy, Scout will
be making the next generation of all-electric trucks and rugged SUVs in the same tradition that made the
original Scout vehicles an American icon.
“We are thrilled to welcome Scout Motors to the town of Blythewood,” said Bryan S. Franklin, Mayor of
the Town of Blythewood. “This historic investment will bring thousands of jobs, economic growth and
opportunity to our local community. We are honored to have been selected for this exciting new
venture. We look forward to working closely with our partners, community members and other
stakeholders to ensure the success of this project and to build a bright future for our town and our
region.”
“We’re excited to be able to partner with the state and the county in attracting this wonderful
opportunity for the region,” said Daniel Rickenman, Mayor of the City of Columbia. “This is what
collaboration looks like.”
“We’re honored to partner with South Carolina to usher in this new era for Scout,” said Scott Keogh,
President and CEO of Scout Motors. “Gov. McMaster is committed to investing in the state’s people, and
we plan to bring new opportunities to grow this community of innovators. The world needs more Scouts,
and this is an important step in honoring Scout heritage and electrifying its future.
About the Richland County Economic Development Office:
The Richland County Economic Development Office (RCEDO) works to expand, diversify and sustain the
local economy by assisting companies that provide meaningful job opportunities and generate new
wealth for its citizens. Founded in 2011, the RCEDO seeks to attract new industry to the community,
assist existing companies with potential expansions, and ensure buildings and industrial sites are
available for prospects to consider.
About Scout Motors:
The Scout, originally produced by International Harvester from 1960 to 1980, was the world’s first utility
vehicle capable of both off-road adventure and family duty. It was the 8-day-a-week truck. Scout is now
an American icon whose heritage is kept alive by a dedicated community of doers that continue to push
their vehicles on the farm, in the wilderness, and on family outings. Scout Motors was formed to craft
all-electric trucks and rugged SUVs rooted in the same tradition that made the original Scout an
American icon. Scout Motors is revitalizing a legend and returning manufacturing to American shores.
Scout Motors is headquartered in Tysons, Virginia. Vehicle production is targeted to begin by the end
2026, with the first retail sales of trucks and SUVs occurring soon thereafter.
To learn more, visit www.scoutmotors.com and follow along on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.
To learn more about Scout and Blythewood, visit https://scoutblythewood.com/.
Scout Media Contact:
Raechel Blitchington
The Wilbert Group
rblitchington@thewilbertgroup.com
912-432-0858
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