The electric truck market has a new contender on the horizon: the Scout Terra, aiming to compete directly with the Rivian R1T. Projected to go into production in 2027, the Scout Terra promises off-road capabilities and performance designed for adventure enthusiasts. Though it’s still in development, many details about the Terra show its ambition to match Rivian’s popular R1T, a well-regarded electric truck already on the market. Let’s look at how the Scout Terra stacks up against the Rivian R1T in terms of performance, design, price, and features.
| Feature | Scout Terra | Rivian R1T |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Projected under $60,000 | Starting at $71,700 |
| Range | Up to 350 miles (500 miles with extender) | 270 – 420 miles |
| Charging Architecture | 800-volt, 350 kW | 400-volt, 220 kW |
| Motors | Dual motor (1 per axle) | Dual, Tri, or Quad motor options |
| Towing Capacity | 10,000 pounds+ | 11,000 pounds |
| Ground Clearance | Over 12 inches | Up to 14.9 inches |
| Fording Depth | Up to 36 inches | Up to 43.1 inches |
Scout Terra vs. Rivian R1T: Key Comparisons
Pricing
The Rivian R1T, starting around $71,700, positions itself as a premium electric truck with high-end features and powerful performance. Fully loaded, it can reach upwards of $110,000, with upcoming quad-motor models expected to reach $120,000. In contrast, the Scout Terra is expected to be priced below $60,000, potentially making it a more affordable option for those looking for an off-road-ready EV. This price difference may appeal to consumers interested in high-performance electric trucks but want to keep costs more manageable.
Battery and Range
One of the most critical aspects for electric trucks is their driving range, as they are expected to handle both everyday and off-road adventures. Rivian’s R1T offers a range of between 270 and 420 miles on a single charge, depending on battery choice. The Scout Terra, although not yet in production, is anticipated to deliver up to 350 miles on a full charge, with a unique “Harvester” range-extender option that could push the range to 500 miles. This range-extender employs a gas-powered system that charges the battery without mechanically powering the wheels. Such an option may appeal to those planning long trips or off-road excursions far from charging infrastructure.
Charging Speed and Technology
The Scout Terra plans to use an 800-volt electrical architecture with a maximum charge rate of 350 kW, promising faster charging times compared to Rivian’s 400-volt, 220 kW charging system. The higher voltage system in the Terra indicates a forward-looking design, as it would allow drivers to charge faster—ideal for road trips or off-road excursions that demand quick charging stops.
Performance and Power (Scout Terra vs. Rivian R1T)
Rivian offers multiple configurations for the R1T, including dual, tri, and quad motor options, with power ranging from 533 horsepower up to a staggering 1,025 hp and torque levels reaching 1,198 lb-ft. The Scout Terra, though, will be simpler with a dual-motor setup (one per axle) generating nearly 1,000 lb-ft of torque. While no horsepower figures have been announced for the Terra, it’s clear it will prioritize torque for rugged terrain. The R1T’s quad-motor model can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds, while the Terra is estimated to take 3.5 seconds for the same sprint, still impressive for a truck in this category.
Interior and Controls
Rivian’s R1T features a 15.6-inch touchscreen with most controls, nearly button-free, allowing a minimalist interior design. Additionally, it includes a 12.3-inch digital driver display and a 6.8-inch screen for rear passengers. Meanwhile, the Scout Terra is expected to adopt a more practical approach, incorporating both a 16.2-inch touchscreen and physical switches and dials for climate control and auxiliary systems. Scout has designed this setup to offer a more tactile experience, potentially making it easier to operate while off-roading.
Size and Capacity
The Rivian R1T measures 217.1 inches long and seats five passengers, which makes it slightly smaller than most traditional trucks, such as the Ford F-150 Lightning. On the other hand, the Scout Terra, with an anticipated length of 229.2 inches, will be closer to the F-150’s dimensions and can seat five to six passengers. Scout is also planning an option for a three-person front bench, enhancing seating flexibility. The Terra will have a 5.5-foot bed, compared to the R1T’s 4.5-foot bed, providing additional storage space for outdoor gear.
Off-Roading Capabilities
Both trucks are designed for off-road enthusiasts, but each takes a different approach to achieving that goal. The Rivian R1T uses a fully independent suspension system paired with air suspension and a hydraulic kinetic anti-roll system, which allows for up to 14.9 inches of ground clearance and the ability to ford up to 43.1 inches of water. It offers significant control over its ground clearance and off-road performance through its various suspension settings.
The Scout Terra, by comparison, will have a solid rear axle with an independent front suspension system, although detailed specifications haven’t yet been fully disclosed. Scout is planning a ground clearance of over 12 inches, enough to handle rugged terrain, along with the ability to ford up to 36 inches of water. Additionally, the Terra will include front lockers and a sway bar disconnect, features that are missing on the R1T, which could give the Terra an edge for more extreme off-roading situations.
Production Timeline and Availability
The Rivian R1T entered production in 2021 and is currently available to purchase, although availability can vary due to high demand. Scout’s Terra, meanwhile, is slated for a 2027 production start, so prospective buyers will have to wait a few years to get their hands on it. Reservations for the Terra are currently open with a $100 refundable deposit, showing Scout’s commitment to generating early interest.
Charging Infrastructure and User Accessibility
As electric vehicles gain popularity, accessible charging becomes crucial. Rivian has invested in its proprietary “Adventure Network” of fast chargers, which is already expanding across the U.S., designed to support outdoor travel routes. While Scout hasn’t disclosed a similar charging network, the Terra’s 800-volt charging capability could give it an advantage on third-party networks that are adopting higher-voltage fast-charging systems.
A Glimpse into the Future of Electric Trucks
While the Scout Terra remains several years away from production, it is shaping up to be a serious contender in the electric truck market, especially for buyers looking for a rugged, adventure-ready EV. The Terra’s competitive pricing, impressive range options, and forward-thinking charging technology position it as a solid alternative to the Rivian R1T. However, for those who want an electric truck now and are willing to invest in a more premium vehicle, the Rivian R1T remains one of the best options available today.
The competition between the Scout Terra and Rivian R1T represents the future of electric trucks—vehicles that are not only environmentally friendly but also packed with features for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts. It will be exciting to see how the electric truck market continues to evolve with these innovations, offering drivers more choices and better technology.
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