Ideas for Scout Engineers

[midwestscout]

Hi Scout engineers,

Below are some ideas for standard or optional features:

-add rear bumper corner built-in steps to allow access to stepping up into the truck bed, similar to the Chevrolet Silverado/Colorado.
-include a digital key option to use a smartphone as a passive key for entering/locking the vehicle.
-pre-heat/pre-cool cabin remotely via smartphone app
-include 360 degree camera options on both Traveler and Terra models.
-include Apple CarPlay/Android Auto as available options.
-heated/cooled/massaging seats
-excellent sound system with subwoofer
-flex-fuel capable for harvester electric/gas powertrain models
-include a drain plug in the front trunk for ice/beverages for camping/tailgating
-ensure the load capacity on both tailgate and suv tailgates can handle 2 adults sitting on them, say at least 500lbs.
-include an option for a plain-colored interior headliner fabric, I'm not a fan of the pattern shown on the reveal vehicle.
-allow an option for full-leather seats instead of the leather/fabric combination.
-include an option for at least hands-free driving if not both hands and eyes free driving.
-rain-sensing windshield wipers
-auto high/low headlight beams
-include 7 and 4 pin towing connections
-power sunshade on the glass roof option
-solid roof option for those that don't want either the retractable or glass roofs.
-allow Netflix, Amazon Prime, and others for playing tv shows and movies when parked.
-use Google maps
-have an option to use something like OnX for off-road trail maps
-matte black exterior color option
-matte black front and rear skid plate finish options
-relocate the household power outlets on the suv from the same area where the charge port is located to just inside the rear cargo area so that they are out of the weather in case it's raining.


Thank you for listening!

 

[Scoutsie]

Should all be options. What one person wants/needs is different than another. I’d prefer what Iguy suggested so individualized options would be ideal solution

Well, nobody here needs four wheels so much as wants them.

(thank you, I will be here all week)

 

[Iguy]

I’m not totally sold on the tap-brakes-to-start thing (still wondering why someone came up with the thought to do it this way and where it originated. Was it to give you the feel of kickstarting a motorcycle?) Also thinking about the time I spent in an aircast this summer, and while I could drive as long as my left foot wasn’t engaged, would I love that my foot was needed to start the car? If I had a prosthetic, arthritis, plantar fasciitis or even just wore a really rigid shoe, would I want this? Just spitballing. Still trying to accept that this exists.

And thanks for seat clarity. Yes to a comfy seat. I don’t know if they’re making them in-house or ordering them to spec (the latter?), but humbly suggest the densest non-memory foam.

I guess I’m not explaining it well. There is no “taping” involved really. It’s no different than a gas vehicle. All modern gas vehicles require you to press the brake to turn it on. Or even older vehicles that required the clutch to be in. Same principal. You literally just have to press the brake enough to activate the switch, then it’s on. I have severe plantar fasciitis and have driven in big clunky stiff boots and it’s not an issue. If you have an issue using the brakes normally then you shouldn’t be driving. There is no two footing, no special procedure, you literally get in, foot lightly on the brake, shift to drive just like a gas vehicle but bypassing the on off function.

Totally get why people want a button and separate control so don’t get me wrong on that. I’m really just trying to help people understand the feature so they can make informed decisions on if they like it or not. Seriously recommend to anyone who is unsure watching a video of a Tesla or Silverado EV for this feature.

 

[J Alynn]

The issue with this is it’s just not practical/feasible due to the complexity and cost. As an automotive engineer, I understand why manufacturers go to packages. The cost to maintain complex options is just too high and results in worse quality every time. I’m fully prepared to accept that I either won’t get some things I want due to cost or will get more things than I want. I’d love to pick and choose, but it’s highly unlikely.

We can wait and see. It’s been a big series of discussions over past 23 months and Scout keeps promoting individualized vehicles. I get small packages being assembled -I.e. heated steering wheel, headlight washers and a warm weather pack because generally you need one the other are good too. But requiring a pano roof as part of a premium audio system is ridiculous

 

[ID_ENG]

I see a lot of take it or leave it opinions on auto sensing wiper blades. If my wife's Hyundai in same price bracket can do it, I see no reason for a trivial and cost efficient add for Scout.

It is really nice to have and personally I would want it. Even if part of a package. The one thing I would suggest though is that there would be a sensor bypass below a certain temperature or if possible ice detection.

Can't tell you how many times the wipers were left in automatic mode and then turning on the car on a frozen morning and seeing the arms stuck there and hearing the motor. Luckily no arms broke or motors burnt out yet. **knocks on wood**

 

[Harris005]

I see a lot of take it or leave it opinions on auto sensing wiper blades. If my wife's Hyundai in same price bracket can do it, I see no reason for a trivial and cost efficient add for Scout.

It is really nice to have and personally I would want it. Even if part of a package. The one thing I would suggest though is that there would be a sensor bypass below a certain temperature or if possible ice detection.

Can't tell you how many times the wipers were left in automatic mode and then turning on the car on a frozen morning and seeing the arms stuck there and hearing the motor. Luckily no arms broke or motors burnt out yet. **knocks on wood**

Some good insight on winter conditions. Sounds like people that have had them do enjoy and prefer them.

 

[Ike]

I agree that the outlets should be moved/separated from the charging port. For those that park outside it can lead to rain and dust getting on them

 

[J Alynn]

I agree that the outlets should be moved/separated from the charging port. For those that park outside it can lead to rain and dust getting on them

Only problem is if you have a loaded store area then you can’t get to them. But I get the argument

 

[Ike]

Only problem is if you have a loaded store area then you can’t get to them. But I get the argument

Not saying the 120v plugs have to be inside, but at least have a separate door/cover.

 

[PRDave]

Yeah, I understand that. I'm asking if the engineers can build the battery pack to allow for at least 100 miles of pure EV range on the harvester models when fully charged before the generator kicks on.

Being able to control when the generator is used to a certain extent would be great! Also doesn’t seem unreasonable to have a camp mode that runs accessories on battery only and kicks on the generator when the battery reaches a preset/custom level of charge, call it a customizable power management system. Hope they can keep the thing relatively quite.

 

[Logan]

Another thought I’ve been having.

If the scouts could be designed for intentional future power train easier, that would be great.

IMO one of the key things scout has always been know for was reliability/longevity. And with battery technology moving so quickly, it would be really nice to buy a vehicle, and know that if I wanted to in 10 years, simply upgrade the battery pack. Or maybe remove the harvester option and add more batteries, or something like that.

With this thing being released on what feels like the cusp of solid state batteries starting to go mainstream, it would be nice to know we have an upgrade path, particularly for harvester owners (again, like 10-15yrs down the line, when maybe charging plus way more ubiquitous, and new battery packs have twice the range).

 

[J Alynn]

Not saying the 120v plugs have to be inside, but at least have a separate door/cover.

Fair enough. Something like the earlier exterior GFCI outlets with the little flip covers that had a gasket. Makes sense. Nothing like plugging into a giant battery on a rainy night while standing in a puddle

 

[Logan]

Fair enough. Something like the earlier exterior GFCI outlets with the little flip covers that had a gasket. Makes sense. Nothing like plugging into a giant battery on a rainy night while standing in a puddle

As a PNW resident who's homes power goes out almost exclusively during heavy wind/rain storms (the rain loosens the soil, the winds come and knock all the trees into the power lines), I do think its important that the plugs be able to handle water.

I wonder if also just de-activating them would help as well (ie, they're functionally off until you hit a button somewhere/etc).

But I agree, GFCI with the little flip covers could likely get them pretty close if finding a second location isn't in the cards.

 

[EtHansen]

Hi Scout engineers,

Below are some ideas for standard or optional features:

-add rear bumper corner built-in steps to allow access to stepping up into the truck bed, similar to the Chevrolet Silverado/Colorado.
-include a digital key option to use a smartphone as a passive key for entering/locking the vehicle.
-pre-heat/pre-cool cabin remotely via smartphone app
-include 360 degree camera options on both Traveler and Terra models.
-include Apple CarPlay/Android Auto as available options.
-heated/cooled/massaging seats
-excellent sound system with subwoofer
-flex-fuel capable for harvester electric/gas powertrain models
-include a drain plug in the front trunk for ice/beverages for camping/tailgating
-ensure the load capacity on both tailgate and suv tailgates can handle 2 adults sitting on them, say at least 500lbs.
-include an option for a plain-colored interior headliner fabric, I'm not a fan of the pattern shown on the reveal vehicle.
-allow an option for full-leather seats instead of the leather/fabric combination.
-include an option for at least hands-free driving if not both hands and eyes free driving.
-rain-sensing windshield wipers
-auto high/low headlight beams
-include 7 and 4 pin towing connections
-power sunshade on the glass roof option
-solid roof option for those that don't want either the retractable or glass roofs.
-allow Netflix, Amazon Prime, and others for playing tv shows and movies when parked.
-use Google maps
-have an option to use something like OnX for off-road trail maps
-matte black exterior color option
-matte black front and rear skid plate finish options
-relocate the household power outlets on the suv from the same area where the charge port is located to just inside the rear cargo area so that they are out of the weather in case it's raining.


Thank you for listening!

I love all the features you added. Being in Austin, TX I would love the option to have the car start cooling off the cabin during the summer. I think another option would have it possible to choose 37 inch tires.

Have it for the Terra where it has a built in bed cover that can retract manually and electronically. Making it smooth and not too bulky/heavy.

Rivian had/has this issue where if you load dirt or get gravel in the bed, it can fall into the cavity of the bed. JerryRigEverything had a little plant start growing in the cavity of the best of the truck. It makes it where if stuff gets stuck it'll make the car heavier and harder to clean, especially depending on what material gets wet. make sure nothing can get into the frame or cavity of the truck.

 

[speedrye]

I've got to throw another vote in for an operable rear window on the Traveler. I use my SUV like a truck, and often have long items sticking out the back window. While a roll-down window like the 4Runner would be great, I don't see it being practical with the tailgate. The spare poses a problem for a pop-up/out window though, so I'm hoping Scout can get creative. With my FJ, the rear glass has a radius cut into it to miss the spare when it pops open, but that would look stupid on the Traveler. Maybe just a hinged window that I have to swing the spare out of the way to open/close? I'm okay with that compromise for the times I need to haul longer things. I'm to short to reach the roof and too old to lift crap up that high.

 

[Logan]

I've got to throw another vote in for an operable rear window on the Traveler. I use my SUV like a truck, and often have long items sticking out the back window. While a roll-down window like the 4Runner would be great, I don't see it being practical with the tailgate. The spare poses a problem for a pop-up/out window though, so I'm hoping Scout can get creative. With my FJ, the rear glass has a radius cut into it to miss the spare when it pops open, but that would look stupid on the Traveler. Maybe just a hinged window that I have to swing the spare out of the way to open/close? I'm okay with that compromise for the times I need to haul longer things. I'm to short to reach the roof and too old to lift crap up that high.

Like you I often use my SUV as a truck. My ZJ has a liftgate in the back, but the window does also open by itself.


I assume that the split tailgate/lift back on the traveler is intended to be used as the liftgate is closed but the tailgate is extended. This would let you put in long items like 8-10ft lumber.

In fact I’m thinking it might even fit 4x8 sheets of plywood with the second row folded down and the tailgate extended. Given it’s as wide as the Terra, the wheel wells should be similarly far apart. And with the length of the traveler and it being only 2 rows, I can see an easy 6ft length internally, and then however far the tailgate extends.

 

[J Alynn]

I've got to throw another vote in for an operable rear window on the Traveler. I use my SUV like a truck, and often have long items sticking out the back window. While a roll-down window like the 4Runner would be great, I don't see it being practical with the tailgate. The spare poses a problem for a pop-up/out window though, so I'm hoping Scout can get creative. With my FJ, the rear glass has a radius cut into it to miss the spare when it pops open, but that would look stupid on the Traveler. Maybe just a hinged window that I have to swing the spare out of the way to open/close? I'm okay with that compromise for the times I need to haul longer things. I'm to short to reach the roof and too old to lift crap up that high.

Would be great but I don’t think there is a physical way to do it. With the tailgate it can’t roll down

 

[timmdodge60]

On the just EV Terra, would it be possible to fit a lockable and weather sealed trunk that is flush with the bed floor? It would use the space where it appears the range extender ICE engine is going to be located.

 

[kentkwwong]

Here is the wishlist item I joined to post/get in front of some Scout Engineers eyes .

I’d love for there to be a way to extract 240v power from the Traveler. If there is an exterior accessible 240v outlet, great! But even something like an adapter/dongle (ala the gizmo that the Hyundai Ioniq 5 uses to do V2L) that uses the bidirectional charging capability, and converts from NACS to an L14-30R would be amazing.

The specific use case I’m interested in is using the Traveler as a generator for my home during an outage. My whole neighborhood was built with manual transfer switches, as power outages in the winter are common. Being able to back out the scout, plug in the house, and set some sort of limit on the minimum battery level that is acceptable, and then have the gas engine kick on.

Having the scout idling in the driveway locked is 1000x better than dragging around a generator, hoping it doesn’t walk off in the middle of the night, or worrying about storing/maintaining gas/Propain to fuel it.

I love lots of details that you guys have gotten right. But that is one thing missing from the traveler that I’d love to see. If it doesn’t work out, I’d adapt one of the 120v/18amp outlets on the outside and do it that way. It would just restrict my options on what I can run in the outages.

Thanks .

I agreed totally of having a 240v outlet on the Traveler will be a big +, and it is the only reason why I switched my reservation from the Traveler to Terra! Hope the Scout engineering team can work it out!
Thanks!

 

[SpaceEVDriver]

Not saying the 120v plugs have to be inside, but at least have a separate door/cover.

I would very much prefer that at least some of the AC plugs be on the outside of the vehicle (especially the 240 volt plug) and with a separate cover. We can't do vehicle to load (of whatever sort) with the outlets on the inside of the vehicle if there's a storm (as one example). Since I've already used my Lightning to power the house when we had service entrance work done, I won't give up the Lightning for a vehicle that can't do the same thing. I also know the Lightning was a literal life-saver during the recent hurricanes and subsequent grid outages.

 

[brianlmccann]

Wait the traveler doesn't have a 240V outlet!? What??