Demystifying Electric Off-Roaders: Ford‘s Bronco Hybrid vs. VW‘s Scout EV Bet

Dear reader,

As an auto industry analyst closely tracking electric vehicle trends, I often get asked – "what about EVs for going off-road?" So when news emerged of Ford adding a plug-in hybrid Bronco alongside Volkswagen‘s planned all-electric Scout trucks, my interest was piqued. How will these two highly anticipated vehicles compare as the first EV attempts at such an extreme use case?

In this comprehensive guide, I‘ll analyze the Bronco and Scout announcements in depth. You‘ll discover how Ford is electrifying an icon versus VW placing a bold bet on EVs. We‘ll compare what‘s known on hybrid power versus full battery-electric specs. And we‘ll see how both vehicles stack up amidst a growing field of electric trucks, SUVs and adventure mobiles.

By the end, you‘ll be equipped with insider knowledge to determine if the Bronco‘s eco-conscious twist or Scout‘s blank slate disruption is the better fit. Let‘s hit the trails!

Overlanding to Electrification: The Rise of EV Off-Roaders

First, what‘s behind this recent push towards electric off-road vehicles? After all, EVs face inherent challenges around range anxiety given huge battery packs required for extreme towing, scaling rocky terrain and other remote use cases.

Yet from policy incentives to shifts in consumer demand, dynamics are fueling an EV makeover even for the hardcore truck segment. As North America‘s best selling auto type, trucks are a prime target for reducing transportation emissions. And outdoor recreational culture increasingly values conservation – extending to the vehicles used to connect with nature.

Automaker investments reflect this appetite. From the show-stopping GMC Hummer EV pickup to the daring Jeep Wrangler MagnetoConcept to startups like Rivian, EV off-roaders capture attention despite high prices. Ford‘s F-150 Lightning has met stunning demand as the first full-size electric truck from a legacy brand.

So between policy pressures, consumer interest and manufacturers responding, the conditions seem ripe for models tailored to the adventure lifestyle like VW‘s Scout EV. But the formula remains unproven versus bankable icons adopting light electrification a la the future Bronco hybrid. Let‘s examine each vehicle positioning in more depth.

The Ford Bronco Goes Green: Hybrid Power to the Masses

When it comes to off-road pedigree, few can rival the Ford Bronco. With six generations dating back to the 1960s, the Bronco nameplate conjures images of bounding through desert landscapes and forging snowy passes. After a 25-year production hiatus, the revived 2021 Bronco ignited enthusiasm with robust capabilities engineered for extreme terrain and endless customization made achievable for the mass-market.

The Bronco isn‘t the overlanding community‘s first electric exposure; brands like Rivian and EV startups have already made headlines. But as an instant sales phenom from Ford, America‘s longtime best-selling auto brand, the Bronco plays an outsized role in shifting perceptions around off-road EVs.

For context, US Bronco sales topped 125,000 in its first 18 months – exceeding Ford‘s internal projections for the vehicle‘s entire lifecycle. This enthusiasm shows that when the Bronco adopts electrification, it will introduce hybrid and electric drivetrains to a wide Bronco following at scale.

Bronco Community Set to Embrace Electrification

And how do diehard Bronco fans feel about hybrid or electric versions diluting their gasoline V6 growl? Surveys indicate openness. A recent study showed 33% of Bronco owners expect their next vehicle to be fully electric, not far below the 39% industry average. Crucially, 66% believe an electric Bronco would offer true off-road capabilities on par with gas variants.

So the signs point to the Bronco community embracing – not resisting – electrification. Much comes down to trust in the brand. For current Bronco owners, faith runs high that Ford can execute an authentic electric or hybrid model without compromising ruggedness or custom mods. The major question becomes…how much electrification at what price?

What We Know About the Bronco Hybrid Powertrain

Thus far Ford has only committed to a Bronco plug-in hybrid variant (PHEV), not full battery-electric (BEV). Slated to launch in late 2024 as a 2025 model year, specifics remain under wraps. But expectations center on utilising Ford‘s existing PHEV components proven reliable in models like the Escape PHEV.

The Escape features a 2.5L Atkinson-cycle gas engine paired with two electric motors and 18 kWh battery. This system produces 209 horsepower channeled through an eCVT transmission. Adapted to the Bronco, output could easily top 300 hp to meet expectations. All-wheel drive would carry over, augmented by instant electric torque.

An 18 kWh battery in the Bronco hybrid would supply around 30 miles of electric-only range – useful for short trips or slower off-roading. Charging would likely utilize the industry standard J1772 port compatible with most public chargers. Overall the specs should deliver tangible fuel savings from the standard Bronco‘s V6 gas mileage without range anxiety, along with some electric torque during low-speed off-roading.

Hybrid Makes Electrification Accessible

One main appeal of the Bronco Hybrid lies in familiarity – both in Ford‘s proven hybrid tech and the trusted Bronco look and feel. This limits risk in adopting some EV features for skeptical customers. The vehicle would function as a gateway for the Bronco brand easing into electrification versus trying to mimic instant-torque EVs outright.

Combined with anticipated affordability keeping sticker prices near the standard Bronco, this hybrid variant democratizes access to electric off-roading. Bronco enthusiasts gain a greener option minus intimidating learning curves around charging or range tradeoffs. For the masses, it‘s the most practical path to partially electrify an off-road icon.

VW Bets Big on Scout EV Brand to Define Electric Off-Roading

Meanwhile Volkswagen is forging its own EV identity tailor-made for off-roading adventures and pursuing sustainability far from paved roads. But rather than electrify an existing model, VW is reintroducing the long-dormant Scout nameplate as a dedicated sub-brand solely focused on electric trucks and SUVs.

Plans call for a new US production facility specifically for Scout vehicles, with both SUVs and pickups launching in 2026 available exclusively as battery electric vehicles (BEVs). Total investment exceeds $7 billion – ample resources to engineer EVs merging classic Scout ruggedness with Volkswagen‘s advanced technology.

Scout EV Targets 400+ Mile Range

These won‘t be compliance car EVs; range and capability sit at the core of Scout‘s emerging DNA. Early reports point to battery capacities exceeding 100 kWh. For context, the leading VW ID.4 crossover EV utilizes 77 kWh for its 322-mile range. Scale up accordingly and Scout models could easily eclipse 400 miles on a single charge.

Such a range could set new benchmarks in the EV truck segment. Combined with trail-optimized interior storage for gear, fast-charge capability for extended trips, and standard AWD with torque vectoring, VW aims to shatter perceptions about EV limitations going off the grid. Think overlanding autonomy fused with high-tech interiors matching the cybertruck vibes of a Rivian.

Scout as Blank Slate for Reinvention

Why the Scout name, last used in the 1980s compact SUV? For starters, it bears goodwill in off-road circles even if last produced over 30 years ago. Yet the clean slate allows Volkswagen freedom to wholly reimagine this historic nameplate for an all-electric future rather than electrify existing VW models with their combustion precedents.

Scout also neatly captures VW‘s scouting of UStruck culture and efforts to build EVs appealing directly to how Americans use trucks – be it worksites, camping or everyday commuting. And positioning Scout as a clearly differentiated sub-brand within VW‘s umbrella allows for unique design and marketing focusing squarely on EV pioneers embracing adventures off the beaten path.

It‘s a bold play – but with billions dedicated specifically to these efforts, VW Group is giving Scout the independence and budget to thrive as a niche player. If they deliver on promises of long range, fast-charging, and quintessential American ruggedness powered by electrons, Scout could successfully fuse VW tech with in-demand lifestyle appeal.

Bronco vs Scout: How the Off-Road EV Rivals Stack Up

Enough background on the histories and strategies behind Ford‘s hybrid approach and VW‘s EV ambitions. Let‘s compare what‘s known about each future vehicle across crucial consumer considerations:

Giving these best guesses at specs, we see the priorities diverge. The Bronco hybrid favors familiarity – combining recognizable styling with the peace of mind of some gas-powered range offsetting 30 electric miles. Meanwhile the Scout EV leans into disruption, promising a revolutionary EV experience targeting 400+ mile ranges to enable adventures far from charging points.

Let‘s analyze key differences in greater depth:

Driving Experience: Torque vs. Tailpipes

The Bronco hybrid splits the difference for customers not ready to abandon gas power completely but seeking fuel savings, torque boosts and 30 miles of plug-in range covering lots of suburban driving. Mating electric power with Ford‘s proven EcoBoost engine aims for the best of both worlds.

In contrast, Scout EVs go all-in on battery power – expecting advancements to quell range anxiety even off-roading far from chargers. Performance should impress with instant torque, one-pedal driving and compact batteries mounted low to maintain a low center of gravity hugging trails. No tailpipes also equals more potential utility customization.

Charging and Range

The Hybrid Bronco can rely completely on gas stations when needed, reducing concern for charging access. At the same time 30 miles electric range covers the US average daily driving commute, allowing gas-free trips that save money. Ford‘s 18 kWh pack should charge quickly on Level 2 AC at most public stations.

Scout EVs will demand diligent charging planning for adventures far from infrastructure. But 400+ mile range means less frequent charging stops. Integrated mapping can pre-plan routes optimizing DC fast chargers enabling longer trips. There‘s also a case that overlanding in remote areas is better suited to self-contained EVs not requiring external gas supply lines.

Customization and Gear Integration

One of the current Bronco‘s key selling points is easy personalization. The hybrid will maintain this modularity, though likely with a heavier overall weight. Since the gas engine still resides up front, creativity for front storage add-ons and gear mounts remains unhindered.

Alternatively, Scout EV‘s skateboard-style battery integrating electric motors at the axles provides greater potential to reimagine interior layouts. Creative gear mounts could take advantage of the full front trunk. More centered mass lowering the center of gravity can also improve handling off-road.

Which Best Suits Need for Green Off-Road Fun?

At the end of the day, who wins out between the legendary Ford Bronco‘s hybrid evolution versus VW‘s blank slate Scout EV moonshot? Well, it comes down to your risk tolerance and exactly how much electrification you need to satisfy adventure cravings.

Go Bronco For Practicality

For those who adore the Bronco brand or have already joined the community with a standard gas model, the plug-in hybrid adds eco-cred through 30 miles of guilt-free electric cruising without disrupting your lifestyle. Familiar styling, tuning potential and gas backup make it an easy transition to greener off-roading. Think of it like buying from a trusted brand.

Choose Scout For All-Electric Life

The ambitious Scout EV suits early adopters drawn to an integrated battery-electric approach rather than just dipping their toes into partial electrification. You‘ll need patience given later production timing. But with VW‘s track record, the waiting game could pay off through tech-focused features paired with 400 miles of off-grid range. For all-electric living, Scout promises a self-reliant adventure-mobile to conquer trails quietly with just the sounds of nature.

In closing, the Bronco and Scout represent two distinct approaches to electric off-roading – evolution versus revolution. As capabilities evolve and additional models like the electric Ford F-150 Lightning fill out the landscape, opportunities will only expand to take your outdoor hobbies off-grid…without leaving the planet behind in a trail of dust.

I hope this comprehensive overview equips you to evaluate both vehicles as their launch timelines progress. Let me know if any other questions come up! More electric off-road comparisons to come. Stay tuned and stay charged.

All my best,
Dan Levy, Lead Auto Analyst