VW America Names New CEO -- Kjell Gruner, Former Rivian Executive

[Scout Fan]

https://www.motor1.com/news/741556/vw-america-ceo-resigns/

Gruner was previously Rivian's Chief Commercial Officer and President, Business Growth as well as Porsche NA's CEO.

Whether this has any impact on Scout Motors or not...

 

[timmyhil]

Probably not since Scout is “independent brand“ from VW. But it might make development on technology and software less difficult since he worked with Rivian and might make the connection stronger with the two brands.

 

[dleepnw]

I think this is positive for VW, Scout and Rivian, sssuming he left on good terms that is, because the familiarity will help accelerate the collaboration.

 

[Trailguide79]

Probably not since Scout is “independent brand“ from VW. But it might make development on technology and software less difficult since he worked with Rivian and might make the connection stronger with the two brands.

I personally believe one reason why Scout bought many Rivian software products is that VW would likely buy Rivian when the numbers add up better for VWof A.

Also, it’s a BAD thing for any automaker to go out of business (example Fisker).

I can envision that Rivian could make a better F-150 than Ford, just like I can see a Scout Traveler be much better than Jeep Wranglers…..even the 392.

 

[timmyhil]

I personally believe one reason why Scout bought many Rivian software products is that VW would likely buy Rivian when the numbers add up better for VWof A.

Also, it’s a BAD thing for any automaker to go out of business (example Fisker).

I can envision that Rivian could make a better F-150 than Ford, just like I can see a Scout Traveler be much better than Jeep Wranglers…..even the 392.

I fear that too. let’s hope R.J. Stands strong and doesn’t allow it.

 

[Trailguide79]

I am actually optimistic for both brands, I don’t think anything from the customer perspective would change much, if VW or Scout bought Rivian.

They both sell directly to the public, but unfortunately Rivian’s second Georgia manufacturing facility had to be placed on hold, I hope with Scout (or VW) buying some aspects of Rivian’s software that both brands will be better because of it.

 

[timmyhil]

I am actually optimistic for both brands, I don’t think anything from the customer perspective would change much, if VW or Scout bought Rivian.

They both sell directly to the public, but unfortunately Rivian’s second Georgia manufacturing facility had to be placed on hold, I hope with Scout (or VW) buying some aspects of Rivian’s software that both brands will be better because of it.

I sadly think Rivian is going down fast if VW decides to drop the partnership. They better have one hell of a Super Bowl commercial, same with Scout Motors If they both want to survive especially since Scout isn’t going public anytime soon from what it seems.

 

[RMK!]

I think this is positive for VW, Scout and Rivian, sssuming he left on good terms that is, because the familiarity will help accelerate the collaboration.

Personally, I'm hoping there is continued financial support by VW with very little involvement in actual decision making. Rivian has more to offer Scout in terms of collaboration .

 

[Trailguide79]

I sadly think Rivian is going down fast if VW decides to drop the partnership. They better have one hell of a Super Bowl commercial, same with Scout Motors If they both want to survive especially since Scout isn’t going public anytime soon from what it seems.

That could happen, as Nissan will Internationally cut……..9,000 jobs.

VW is doing some deep cuts in Germany as well, but candidly they are the biggest vehicle conglomerate in the world by far.

Scout could easily ride out a 5+ year storm with the heavy financial support behind them. As long as the price point stays valid, Scout will be taking Wrangler and Bronco’s lunch money rather quickly provided that there aren’t substantial quality control issues.
VW survived “diselgate” without having to sell off Ducati or other brands, so I believe Scout is financially better prepared from production day 1 than any other company.