Scout prioritizes driver control while offering Level 2+ assistance

Scout says autonomous driving is not core to the rugged-vehicle segment, whose customers it believes value freedom, control and responsibility for driving. The company plans to offer Level 2+ assistance for highway convenience, particularly when driving becomes tedious.

The vehicle is intentionally designed around physical interfaces, including real door handles, switches and mechanical connectivity. Scout also says it will retain body-on-frame construction, a solid rear axle, and capabilities including 1,000 pound-feet of torque and 800 horsepower.

The executive characterizes keeping the driver in charge as a “megatrend” and predicts that Scout will pursue limited, highway-oriented assistance rather than a fully autonomous vehicle design.