Local & Early Reservation Holder Interested in Vehicle Product Testing

[panzer948]

As title says... and didn't want to use "Beta Testing" in the title but that is essentially what I am interested in and think I make a good case why I would be a good choice for Scout. As a lifelong North Carolinian, I’m thrilled to be living right where the action is—just minutes from Scout’s new headquarters in Charlotte, NC, and only an hour from the Blythewood, SC production plant. You can imagine my excitement at the possibility of an onsite plant delivery someday!

I’m also proud to be a very early reservation holder for the SUV, having secured my spot within the first hour of the October 24th reveal. Being an early adopter is in my DNA. I went through the same journey with the 1st‑generation Chevy Volt, waiting over a year and ultimately receiving one of the first 2,500 cars built. During that time, I collaborated directly with GM engineers on resolving both home and public charging challenges—none of which were related to the vehicle itself.

The trend continued with the new Ford Bronco, which I reserved early and still enjoy today. For me, the upcoming Scout combines the innovation of the Volt with the capability and spirit of the Bronco—a truly ideal blend.

Because of that, I’d be genuinely excited to serve as an early adopter for any Scout vehicle if the company sees value in that role. I’d gladly take early delivery in exchange for providing regular feedback, participating in check‑ins with key team members, and helping support and refine a vehicle line I wholeheartedly believe in. My proximity to both the headquarters and the production plant makes it even easier for me to contribute meaningfully on a day‑to‑day basis.

I assume Scout keeps an eye on this forum, and since I wasn’t sure of the best direct contact, I’m sharing this here in hopes it reaches the right people. So Scout—if you’re listening—I’d love the opportunity to help. And if anyone on this forum knows a better way to get this offer in front of the right people, I’d appreciate the advice.

 

[hayduke]

Did you post this on the Community Hub at scoutmotors.com?

Also, I am not an early adopter, live in Washington state, and inevitably only fill out about 65% of any survey. However, I'd be happy to receive my order early and work with folks to put it through the paces.

 

[panzer948]

Did you post this on the Community Hub

No but that's a really good point and to be honest I've gotten busy at work but I have already thought of several places to reach out to when I get more time but if anybody can think of anything else please let me know

 

[joewilk45]

How many reservations back out if scout doesn't win court case and VW dealers win are you still buyers ???

 

[hayduke]

How many reservations back out if scout doesn't win court case and VW dealers win are you still buyers ???

I'm not buying the sales experience, I'm buying the product.

 

[PMurphy]

This is a tough question.

I will not pay a “market adjustment” to a dealer.

I will not pay for paint/interior magic sprays, tire-wheel packages etc. that are pre-applied/installed and added as a mandatory price mark up (sounding familiar to anyone?).

IF the vehicle is less than 100% of what I expect or the dealer has the take it or leave it attitude during the sale it would make it easier for me to walk away. I’ve learned that if you are a little patient the deal will come to you (OR some other option you weren’t expecting comes along).

I have always respected VW/Audi but wasn’t willing to pay the premium prices they ask. I have a Ducati motorcycle and since they have been acquired by Audi prices (especially service) have increased noticeably.

The more I think about all of this the answer is I would still take a look but would be a much less motivated buyer.

 

[6-ScoutFamily]

I might be less inclined to make the purchase. It would depend on how bad the markup and dealer attitude are.

 

[joewilk45]

And I think it hurts the scout brand and excitement we all felt of having a direct relationship with the manufacturer not a salesperson who doesn't know what all the buttons do. But dealership networks are looking at this as D day and all they need to do is make a donation to the orange man plus he gets the thrill of sticking it to his old boy Elon so if I'm betting my money is on dealerships winning and Scout being a stand alone sub brand within VW dealership networks and add 5 k to base price. Let's get real here guys Scott Keogh was CEO of VW he's probably hanging out with current VW brass plotting the future model VW is Scouts bank who you golfing with ??

 

[panzer948]

Wow... talk about my thread getting hijacked....

If VW or Scout requires a dealership and they handle it like "most" of the Ford Dealerships did with my Bronco pre-order/reservation, then I think most of you will be happy. Most dealers did not mark-up the early reservation holders of the Bronco and sold it at MSRP, which folks agreed upon at time of order. Any that did got blasted on social media and quickly reversed their decision. I should know as I was one of them that waited nearly 1.5 years after reserving one...

 

[joewilk45]

I think the whole DTC model is your direct connection to the manufacturer and the brand your a shareholder not a sale

 

[joewilk45]

How many times have you walked into a dealership knowing more then the salesman who has lots of downtime to learn what they're selling that's not the case when buying from the manufacturer