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G. David Felt

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Posts posted by G. David Felt

  1. 18 hours ago, ccap41 said:

    I want one of these so bad. I wouldn't even worry about the "range extended" version as the EV range will be sufficient enough for me. 350 miles of range is more than enough for me. I'd be fine with like 275+ miles of range. 

    My only issue is price and if I could swallow a 60-70k depreciating asset. 

    Oh, I guess my other issue is the dealership/maintenance/repair network situation. I know they're supposed to be building a repair network, but I still worry without any legacy-like established buildings. Yes, they claim to drive to you wherever you are and I'm sure that's only while under warranty, but what happens outside of warranty? Am I paying like a $500 bill to come to my house then to diagnose an issue? 

    Like you the EV is good enough without all the complexity of having a generator built above the rear axle/electric motor for added maintenance.

    Based on my current experience with my EV9 I would have to say that not having a Legacy dealership is fine as maintenance is pretty much nonexistent.

    Repairs / replacement of worn-out parts as long as there are some places to take it, then I do not see an issue. I honestly think Scout will do what Tesla and Rivian has done and will have contracts with companies that cover not only warranty but any other service needs. An example of this is EV's Republic of California.

    Tesla Maintenance & Repair Services by EV’s Republic

    There are also a number of other companies that have contracts to cover service and as such can be found here: 3rd Party Tesla Service: Independent Repair Guide 2025 | Recharged

    Rivian is also signing agreements to expand their service / warranty network.

    ALLDATA Becomes First Third-Party Provider to Add Electric Vehicle Manufacturer Rivian to Repair Software | ALLDATA

    I believe Scout will go this same route with contracts to 3rd party companies for auto repair.

    Tesla Roadside Assistance Network

    Rivian Authorized Service Providers

  2. 6 hours ago, ccap41 said:

    Just a weeeeee bit off of the price of vehicle difference.. 

     

    6/32 is more than 20%. 2/32 is the legal wear marks and most street tires come brand new at 10-11/32. You've likely worn off 4/32 and have 4/32 remaining before the wear bars. If your tires are at 6/32, you're right at 50%. 

    The EV9 Wind AWD with average transaction price of $62,500 is as close as you can get to a Telluride in the SX-Prestige X-Line trim with average transaction price of $54,200.

    Yes a difference of $8,300 which gets you a larger auto in the EV based on length and width. Telluride is taller. EV9 has more interior space.

    Yes the savings has not crossed the full cost of the auto but then the maintenance has not been figured in either, where Kia says every 7,500 miles for a proper synthetic oil change. As such, that would be 4 1/2 oil changes and here they average $100, so add $450 to the gas price, so approaching $5,000 pretty much I will be break even by the end of 2026 in how I see it.

    The benefit of never having to go to a gas station, no maintenance, it is still very simple for me and if you have no problem with used, then you can save a tone on a certified EV or certified ICE. I am seeing 2yr lease returns with very low miles at way less than the 2yr lease ice return.

    Thank you for the Tire info, I forgot when I just quickly looked at my paperwork from the free inspection they did and did the dumb stupid math of converting 6/32 to a percentage which is NOT how I should have done it.

    @Drew Dowdell Made a big mistake in tire life. 60% tire life left based on the new tread depth versus current tread depth.


    Just looked on the Hankook website for new tire information:

    Hankook iON evo AS SUV 275/50 R20 tire has a tread depth of 10/32 inches

  3. 5 hours ago, ccap41 said:

    Everything I've read says they will support AA/CP. 

    Per Scout's own support site:
    They only address Apple Carplay

    image.png

     

    So I hit the chat button and they responded with the following:

    image.png

    So at this point, AA/CP is not supported till they state it imo.

  4. 50 minutes ago, trinacriabob said:

    A window, toward the back, so I'm way behind the wing and close to a bathroom.  If the plane is full on a 3-3-3, I have to ask two people to move, which is even worse when someone has fallen asleep.  On an older A330, only one person has to move.  I had this happen on an almost 9 hour flight from Helsinki to Seattle and I didn't like it, and neither did the 2 people who had to move.  

    My hat is off to Japan Air Lines for possibly being the only carrier, who configured their B787 on normal routes as 2-4-2, for which they lose one seat per row in revenue, but add a good deal more comfort for the passenger in economy.

    I am a aisle seat person. Never mind getting up for others, but with broad shoulders, that seat gives me the most room and comfort.

    • Great Idea! 1
  5. 3 hours ago, trinacriabob said:

    More of a random thought:

    I strongly dislike 3-3-3 seating in economy, which is what I can afford.

    I therefore avoid flying on either the Boeing 787 Dreamliner or the Airbus 350 if I have other options or need to connect one more time..  

    I will happily opt for a flight on an older Boeing 767 (2-3-2) or Airbus 330 (2-4-2).

    Why do you not like 3-3-3?

    What is your preferred seat?

  6. 2 hours ago, trinacriabob said:

    Okay, thanks.  It's funny how sometimes Frontier might have just one point to point flight on a given day and its hours are just right. If you don't belong to their club, you have to snag that lower price fairly quickly before it goes up.   I have yet to fly on them. And I'm sort of looking forward to using them someday, just to do things differently.

    Without the 2 free bags, Southwest is much like any other big American airline these days. Their fees to pick out a particular seat are within bounds and at least it avoids the cattle call.

    Of the legacy carriers, American Airlines typically has the best fares, especially if going one way.  I believe I flew MIA-LAX on a 777-300 for less than $200.  It was a very smooth flight and the descent into LAX was really nice.

    I'm at the end of my rope with Delta.  There's nothing wrong with them in the air.  They are usually the most expensive and what they want for mileage redemptions is comparatively high to what the other legacy carriers want.  Once that frequent flyer account is depleted, I doubt I will be using Delta much.  Also, they do not have ITA as a partner anymore and their only major European partners that are even relevant to me are Air France and KLM, and they are not even that relevant to me.

    United, AA, & Delta are horror stories for me. I pretty much stick with Alaska Airlines now. Hate the cattle car approach of Southwest and Frontier was a one and done of dirtiness and I was ridiculed by the flight folks for wiping down my table and space with anti-septic wipes to have a cleaner space. Shocking how dirty it was, so pretty much one can call me an air snob if you want, but for what we pay for a ticket, one should expect clean planes and polite service.

    2 hours ago, Robert Hall said:

    I never check bags if I can avoid it, so not an issue for me.  I get their plus something something so I'm usually at the front of the line (haven't flown them since they dropped the cattle call, though).   Unless it's over 1000 miles, though, I prefer to travel by Cadillac..I really enjoy road trips and really dislike air travel anymore... 

    I always check a bag as my clothes are just way too big to fit in that tiny carry on and with the continued reduction in carry on size, not going to fight over overhead space.

    • Agree 1
    • Great Idea! 1
  7. @Drew Dowdell So we are having a huge winter storm and lots of cold rain here at sea level, white out conditions in the mountains. The wife went down south to deal with her side of the family. She said it was not very grippy on the road, so I took the EV9 to Discount Tires for a check on the tires.

    Unlike the dealership that has told me 40%, Discount Tire says I have 6/32 tread left or 20%. They recommend replacing them before next fall. So I will run these tires till the fall and then replace them. Should have about 40,000 miles on these 50,000 mile tires per Hankook. 

    The tires I am considering are the following:

    Michelin CrossClimate2 275 /50 R20 113V XL BSW | Discount Tire

    Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady 2 275 /50 R20 113V XL VSB | Discount Tire

  8. 5 minutes ago, Drew Dowdell said:

    What's the tire situation?

    At the 32,000 inspection, they came back at 40% tread for a 50,000 mile tire from Hankook
    Hankook iON evo AS SUV 275 /50 R20 113V XL BSW | Discount Tire

    These are the OEM tires it comes with. They have not been bad, but for a snow rated tire, the first year they were fine up on the pass for skiing, but this year with less tread I had more slip than I have experienced with my Michelin on the Escalade. So will be looking at other options when I do replace them.

  9. Scout, with over 150,000 reservations for their Traveler SUV and Terra Truck, is quickly heading toward full production aimed to start by the beginning of 2027. Test mules have been spotted out and about around the factory in South Carolina. Many things were stated when the SUV and Truck were first revealed back in 2024.

    Here we are in 2026 and less than a year away from full production of these EVs. Let's dig into an update on what the details are for the Traveler and Terra.

    Shared Specs: Traveler SUV & Terra Truck

    First, let's start with some basic details that cover both the SUV and truck.

    • EV version will go 0 to 60 mph acceleration in 3.5 seconds
    • Extended Range generator versions will go 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds
      • Acceleration capabilities Scout reminds us will depend on final vehicle configuration, equipment, etc. The numbers supplied is an empty vehicle with a driver.
    • SUV and Truck are both estimated to produce at least 1,000 lb-ft of torque through the electronic drive units.
    • Projected payload capacity is 2,000 lbs for both the SUV and Truck.
    • Battery size for EV only will be 120 - 130 kWh size
      • Estimated range of 350 miles
    • Range Extender models will be 60 - 70 kWh size
      • Estimated range of 500 plus miles
    • American Axle is the supplier for the front and rear electronic drive axle units.
    • Off-road capabilities have been stated as follows:
      • They are projected to come standard with dual-motors for four-wheel drive, a solid rear axle, a locking rear differential, and off-road drive modes. Plus, the bumpers and rockers are separated from the body and are designed to act as protective elements.

      • For even more capability, customers will be able to select an optional off-road package, which includes off-road tires, special shock tuning, a locking front differential, and more. Scout vehicles will also offer a front sway bar disconnect, designed to improve wheel articulation, comfort, and traction on uneven terrain – offering the best of both on-road and off-road handling. Final details will be confirmed as we approach production.

    • Type of Differential: A standard mechanical-locking rear differential. A mechanical-locking front differential will be part of an optional off-road package.

    • Scout vehicles are designed to come standard with a dual-motor, four-wheel drive system. The rear motor is paired with a standard solid rear axle for enhanced capability and durability.

    • Each Scout will come with a spare tire:

      • Scout Traveler: Offers a rear-mounted spare tire carrier that seamlessly integrates into the vehicle’s body and rear design. It can hold a full-size spare up to 35 inches with minimal impact on aerodynamics.

      • Scout Terra: Offers an underbody spare tire carrier for up to 33-inch tires, with an option for a 35-inch all-terrain tire carrier mounted in the bed.

    • Scout will use an 800V high-voltage architecture with fast charging capable of up to 350 kW.

    • Physical controls: Scout has confirmed that market research has stated that while a big screen is desired for feedback to the end user, a mechanical tactile experience is preferred. Scout has confirmed the following:

      • Mechanical door handles

      • Mechanical grab bars

      • Mechanical switches / dials for traditional things such as heat, cooling, radio, defrost, windows, etc.—a real hands-on experience

    • Scout platform is an all-new ladder-frame chassis designed for long-term durability and reliability on- and off-road.

    • Suspension is currently still not stated, but Scout has stated that they will offer an optional air springs system with active damping working with the solid rear axle.

    • All Scout vehicles will come with USB-C for easy access to all seats and 120V outlets.

    • Scout vehicles are expected to handle up to 100% grade.

    • Water fording capabilities are projected to handle three feet of water depth.

    • Multiple Roof options with powered shade, open-air options with privacy and thermal control.

    • Seating options

      • Captain chairs with multifunctional center console or front bench seat.

    • Community UX interface

      • The Community UX ecosystem will prioritize simplicity and convenience. Instead of hiding features in complex menus, it will combine tactile buttons and knobs with a responsive, right-sized digital interface. This will ensure intuitive and low-effort interactions for all users.

      • The system will also offer three customizable information modes:
        • Detailed View: For those who love diving into vehicle data.
        • Default Mode: Displays essential information for easy, stress-free driving.
        • Detox Mode: Minimizes distractions with a clean, simple display.2027 Scout Terra electric pickup truck exterior side view

    Scout Terra Truck Specs & Dimensions

    Details specific to the Terra Truck.

    • Rear retractable window
    • Towing Capacity of 10,000 lbs
    • Pickup Dimensions
      • Length: 229.2 in

      • Width Without Mirrors: 79.9 in

      • Width With Mirrors: 91.6 in

      • Max Height (with Antenna): 77.7 in

      • Wheelbase: 148.6 in

      • Max Ground Clearance: 12+ in

      • Bed Length: 66 in (5.5 ft) 

      • Cab to Bumper: 71.7 in

      • Offered Tire Size: 35 in

    2027 Scout Traveler electric SUV exterior side view

    Scout Traveler SUV Specs & Dimensions

    Details specific to the Traveler SUV.

    • Split Tailgate
    • Towing capacity of 7,000 lbs
    • SUV Dimensions
      • Length With Spare Wheel Carrier: 207.9 in

      • Length Without Spare Wheel Carrier: 190.9 in

      • Width Without Mirrors: 79.9 in

      • Width With Mirrors: 91.6 in

      • Max Height (with Antenna): 76.3 in

      • Wheelbase: 120.4 in

      • Max Ground Clearance: 12+ in

      • Offered Tire Size: 35 in

    Scout has confirmed that the Traveler SUV will go into production first and then the Terra Truck. Scout has been mum about if they will support Android Auto / Apple Carplay. A big question that has not been answered yet is will the Scout EVs have a heat pump or not. 

    Related Articles

    In addition, Scout Motors has started a community to enable people to talk about both old and new Scout products, ask questions and explore the world of Scout. Scout Motors Community

    Check out more at Scout Motors


    View full article

  10. 3 hours ago, A Horse With No Name said:

    I am looking forward to replacing the Ranger in a few years with a full EV. Ocnblu made fun of you for waiting until the right vehicle came along to transition to EV, but when you did...you are not going back to ICE, regardless of how cool your Trailblazer SS was. 

    VERY impressed with Hybrid tech, and 49 mpg is nothing to sneeze at. 

    Yes, one can never sneeze at 49mpg or more when it saves one money.

    I am keeping my eye on the Scout as they have already announced that it will be a pure 800V EV / EREV Truck / SUV. The only unanswered question is will they support AA / CP?

    The EV Scout Truck / SUV will have a minimum of 300 miles of range on a charge and the EREV will have 500 plus. So many of my coworkers have already placed deposits for the EREV model. Yet with that said, my wife and I are past the point of camping on the ground, in a tent, etc. We love the outdoors, but would rather stay in a hotel or book a house for the family and enjoy the outdoors and come back to a hot shower, house to have dinner in, play games with the kids and enjoy a more relaxing setup. As such, my kids and I now plan yearly outings where we book a house and still enjoy hiking, fishing, etc. but on a more luxury level.

    SCOUT Options

    Scout Motors

    Traveler Terra.jpgScout Terra Exterior Major 0572.jpg

    • Like 1
    • Agree 1
  11. 1 hour ago, Drew Dowdell said:

    I got an Insta360 camera. It has a built in AI that removes the selfie stick from the image since it can see around it.

     

    Very cool, thank you, that picture is awesome and I look forward to seeing more pictures from you.

  12. BYD breaks down final barriers to electrification with Blade Battery 2.0 and FLASH Charging

    World's most advanced power battery works with world's fastest mass-produced EV charger to make recharging as easy as refueling 

    1,500kW of charging power achieves a 10%-97% refill in just nine minutes – and even in -30deg C, 20%-97% takes only 12 minutes

    Energy-station integration opens locations to FLASH Charger Stations

    Plans for 20,000 chargers in China by end of 2026, plus overseas rollout

     

    BYD breaks down final barriers to electrification with Blade Battery 2.0 and FLASH Charging - BYD

    • Thanks 1
  13. 14 hours ago, A Horse With No Name said:

    We did wind up buying the 2026 Camry Hybrid, so I am now a Hybrid owner. Happy so far. 

    Congratulations, excited for you and your wife. 

    Look forward to hearing your reviews on it, pictures of the new car. Welcome to the Hybrid life.

    Cheers Thumbs Up GIF by VadooTV

    Ranked No. 1 in California, BYD Energy Storage Offers High Reliability to Central California Energy Storage Project - Technological Innovations for a Better Life | BYD USA

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