Scout Motors Inc. will establish its corporate headquarters in Charlotte, North Carolina, creating 1,200 jobs and investing more than $206.9 million in Mecklenburg County, Governor Josh Stein announced on November 12, 2025.
“Scout Motors is revitalizing an iconic American brand, creating high-quality jobs, and building the next great automotive company right here in the Carolinas,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Our business-friendly climate, our top-tier research universities and community colleges, our leadership in the clean energy economy, our quality of life, and above all, our people make companies want to call North Carolina home.”
Scout Motors was formed in 2022 to develop a new generation of trucks and SUVs inspired by the original Scout vehicle produced by International Harvester from 1961 to 1980. In October 2024, the company introduced its new concept vehicles—the Scout Traveler SUV and Scout Terra truck—both designed with electric or extended-range electric models. Production is scheduled to begin in 2027 at a facility currently under construction.
The new headquarters will occupy a 300,000-square-foot office space that will house research and development as well as IT, finance, sales, marketing, and other corporate functions.
“Charlotte is the ideal home for Scout Motors – a place as dynamic as our people and brand, where heritage and pride meet progress and innovation,” said Scott Keogh, President and CEO of Scout Motors. “With a thriving talent pool, world-class universities, and a deserved reputation as a launchpad for bold ideas, Charlotte offers the momentum we need to scale quickly and sustainably. We’ll build a headquarters that reflects our culture, empowers our teams, and connects us to a region that’s fast becoming a national hub for mobility and manufacturing.”
N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley stated: “Scout Motors carries forward a proud American legacy of innovation and craftsmanship to North Carolina. We’re honored that this storied brand is building its next chapter here—joining dozens of world-class companies that have chosen to invest in our state. With our talented workforce, strong business climate, and exceptional quality of life, Scout Motors reinforces why North Carolina remains America’s Top State for Business.”
The average annual salary for the new positions is projected at $172,878—significantly higher than Mecklenburg County’s average wage—and could result in an annual payroll impact exceeding $207 million.
A Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG) approved by the state’s Economic Investment Committee will support Scout Motors’ expansion. Over twelve years—the grant’s term—the project is expected to add $4.8 billion to North Carolina’s economy. The JDIG agreement allows potential reimbursement up to $46.5 million over twelve years if job creation and investment targets are met; payments are made only after performance verification by state agencies.
For every dollar spent through this public investment program supporting Scout Motors’ move into North Carolina’s Tier 3 county system (Mecklenburg), there is an anticipated return of $1.67 in state revenue—a projected return on investment of 67 percent.
Additionally, up to $15.5 million from the JDIG agreement may be transferred into North Carolina’s Industrial Development Fund – Utility Account. This fund helps rural communities statewide pay for infrastructure upgrades needed to attract future businesses.
“This is outstanding news for Mecklenburg County and the entire state of North Carolina,” said Senator Caleb Theodros. “I am excited to welcome Scout Motors, these 1,200 jobs, and millions in investments which will create great opportunities for our community.”
“Days like this are the result of the hard work of our many local, regional, and state economic development professionals,” said Representative Becky Carney. “I am grateful for the collaboration and support that they’ve extended to Scout Motors to help them decide to make Charlotte its homebase.”
Multiple organizations partnered on this project including: the North Carolina Department of Commerce; Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina; General Assembly; Division of Workforce Solutions; Community College System; Central Piedmont Community College; University of North Carolina System; UNC Charlotte; NC A&T State University; Charlotte Regional Business Alliance; Mecklenburg County; CharlotteWorks; City of Charlotte.
