A fun tool to compare Traveler BEV vs. EREV routing

[TheManchot]

We currently have deposits down for both the Traveler BEV and EREV (placed both before realizing it wasn't necessary). As we try to decide which configuration actually fits our use cases better, I put together a Gemini Gem to analyze specific routes.

It breaks down the logistical differences between the two powertrains for a given trip. If you are on the fence, looking at the practical implications of a long haul might clarify things. Take it for what it's worth, but it can help think things through.

I know AI tools can be polarizing, but I’d suggest looking at the example output before writing it off. It's been fun looking at the various scenarios, even knowing these things aren't 100% accurate.
Note: The example below was generated using Gemini Pro, but I believe Gems are now available to free users as well. Not sure how that might change the output.

Example Output (anyone can see with or without a Google Account, just copied and pasted to Google Docs for easy viewing):
Route: Denver, CO > Black Bear Pass > Tuweap > Hurricane UT (Scout Connectors, 35" tires, July, 15% reserve)

Scout Traveler BEV/EREV Trip Comparison Tool Example

"Scout Comparison Tactician" online. I have received your mission parameters. This is a high-consequence route blending high-altitude technical terrain with extreme desert remoteness. 1. MISSION PARAMETERS Route: Denver, CO → Black Bear Pass (Telluride) → Tuweap (Grand Canyon North Rim) → Hurrica...

docs.google.com

The Gem (Link - try for yourself - you at least need to be signed into a Google account to try - Pro accounts work for sure):

‎Google Gemini

Meet Gemini, Google’s AI assistant. Get help with writing, planning, brainstorming, and more. Experience the power of generative AI.

gemini.google.com

How to use it:
Once you open the Gem, you don't need a complex prompt. Just type your start and end points and stops along the way. It may ask you a few routing, time of year, and rig (e.g. 35" tires) questions.

Examples prompts from the Gem link above:

• Denver, CO to Moab, UT
• San Francisco to Cabo San Lucas
• Portland, OR > John Day > Hells Canyon with Scout Connectors, 33" tires, and 15% minimum reserve in November

It will generate a comparison report looking at charging stops, total time, and refueling logistics for both platforms.

I'll be curious what you all think. Cheers

 

[J Alynn]

We currently have deposits down for both the Traveler BEV and EREV (placed both before realizing it wasn't necessary). As we try to decide which configuration actually fits our use cases better, I put together a Gemini Gem to analyze specific routes.

It breaks down the logistical differences between the two powertrains for a given trip. If you are on the fence, looking at the practical implications of a long haul might clarify things. Take it for what it's worth, but it can help think things through.

I know AI tools can be polarizing, but I’d suggest looking at the example output before writing it off. It's been fun looking at the various scenarios, even knowing these things aren't 100% accurate.
Note: The example below was generated using Gemini Pro, but I believe Gems are now available to free users as well. Not sure how that might change the output.

Example Output (anyone can see with or without a Google Account, just copied and pasted to Google Docs for easy viewing):
Route: Denver, CO > Black Bear Pass > Tuweap > Hurricane UT (Scout Connectors, 35" tires, July, 15% reserve)

Scout Traveler BEV/EREV Trip Comparison Tool Example

"Scout Comparison Tactician" online. I have received your mission parameters. This is a high-consequence route blending high-altitude technical terrain with extreme desert remoteness. 1. MISSION PARAMETERS Route: Denver, CO → Black Bear Pass (Telluride) → Tuweap (Grand Canyon North Rim) → Hurrica...

docs.google.com

The Gem (Link - try for yourself - you at least need to be signed into a Google account to try - Pro accounts work for sure):

‎Google Gemini

Meet Gemini, Google’s AI assistant. Get help with writing, planning, brainstorming, and more. Experience the power of generative AI.

gemini.google.com

How to use it:
Once you open the Gem, you don't need a complex prompt. Just type your start and end points and stops along the way. It may ask you a few routing, time of year, and rig (e.g. 35" tires) questions.

Examples prompts from the Gem link above:

• Denver, CO to Moab, UT
• San Francisco to Cabo San Lucas
• Portland, OR > John Day > Hells Canyon with Scout Connectors, 33" tires, and 15% minimum reserve in November

It will generate a comparison report looking at charging stops, total time, and refueling logistics for both platforms.

I'll be curious what you all think. Cheers

That’s pretty impressive. Lots of info to absorb but Gemini provides an easy manner to digest the info

 

[TheManchot]

That’s pretty impressive. Lots of info to absorb but Gemini provides an easy manner to digest the info

Would love the see the routes you all care about.

 

[04Ram2500Hemi]

We currently have deposits down for both the Traveler BEV and EREV (placed both before realizing it wasn't necessary). As we try to decide which configuration actually fits our use cases better, I put together a Gemini Gem to analyze specific routes.

It breaks down the logistical differences between the two powertrains for a given trip. If you are on the fence, looking at the practical implications of a long haul might clarify things. Take it for what it's worth, but it can help think things through.

I know AI tools can be polarizing, but I’d suggest looking at the example output before writing it off. It's been fun looking at the various scenarios, even knowing these things aren't 100% accurate.
Note: The example below was generated using Gemini Pro, but I believe Gems are now available to free users as well. Not sure how that might change the output.

Example Output (anyone can see with or without a Google Account, just copied and pasted to Google Docs for easy viewing):
Route: Denver, CO > Black Bear Pass > Tuweap > Hurricane UT (Scout Connectors, 35" tires, July, 15% reserve)

Scout Traveler BEV/EREV Trip Comparison Tool Example

"Scout Comparison Tactician" online. I have received your mission parameters. This is a high-consequence route blending high-altitude technical terrain with extreme desert remoteness. 1. MISSION PARAMETERS Route: Denver, CO → Black Bear Pass (Telluride) → Tuweap (Grand Canyon North Rim) → Hurrica...

docs.google.com

The Gem (Link - try for yourself - you at least need to be signed into a Google account to try - Pro accounts work for sure):

‎Google Gemini

Meet Gemini, Google’s AI assistant. Get help with writing, planning, brainstorming, and more. Experience the power of generative AI.

gemini.google.com

How to use it:
Once you open the Gem, you don't need a complex prompt. Just type your start and end points and stops along the way. It may ask you a few routing, time of year, and rig (e.g. 35" tires) questions.

Examples prompts from the Gem link above:

• Denver, CO to Moab, UT
• San Francisco to Cabo San Lucas
• Portland, OR > John Day > Hells Canyon with Scout Connectors, 33" tires, and 15% minimum reserve in November

It will generate a comparison report looking at charging stops, total time, and refueling logistics for both platforms.

I'll be curious what you all think. Cheers

That’s pretty cool! The detail is pretty interesting. It’s a more elegant way of what I’ve been saying for a while now, the Harvester may cost a little more on the trip (gas vs charging) but the range anxiety goes away, and it takes less time to get where you’re going.

 

[TheManchot]

That’s pretty cool! The detail is pretty interesting. It’s a more elegant way of what I’ve been saying for a while now, the Harvester may cost a little more on the trip (gas vs charging) but the range anxiety goes away, and it takes less time to get where you’re going.

I have thought about adding towing to this, but there may not be enough data yet to make it useful. Perhaps in the future. I don’t have a towing need, but I know it’s a big discussion.

 

[04Ram2500Hemi]

I did this trip back in October on my birthday. It’s cool to have a real world example between the two.

This is a high-altitude "Speed Run" through the Pioneer and Pintler ranges. In October, the thermal reality of Southwest Montana—where morning temperatures can dip to 25°F—will put your energy strategy to the test.
With 35" All-Terrain tires and a 15% Minimum Reserve, the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway presents a specific challenge: there is zero high-speed charging between Dillon and Anaconda.

I. The Mission Math (Comparison)​

Metric	Traveler BEV	Traveler Harvester
Total Range Strategy	1 Mandatory Charging Stop	0 Mid-Trip Stops
Est. Trip Duration	7h 45m (Incl. Charging/Detour)	6h 15m (Continuous)
Est. Energy Cost	$58.20 (Avg $0.16/mi)	$43.50 (Avg $0.12/mi)
Seasonal/Tire Status	Range -18% (Tires + Cold)	Efficiency -10% (Tires)
Route Integrity	Requires Detour to Dillon, MT	100% of Plan

Export to Sheets

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II. Leg-by-Leg Tactical Breakdown​

Leg 1: Missoula to Polaris via I-15 — 172 Miles

• The Route: Paved high-speed Interstate (75-80 MPH) followed by MT-278.
• Capability Check: October Status: Roads clear, but temps are 40°F. Your 35" tires are creating significant drag at 80 MPH.

Tactical Execution:

• Harvester Strategy: Start with 100% charge from Missoula. Use EV-Only for the first 110 miles. The Generator will kick in seamlessly near Melrose, MT, to maintain battery levels for the climb to Polaris.
• BEV Strategy: You cannot bypass Dillon, MT. If you drive straight to Polaris, your 15% reserve will be depleted before you reach the top of the Scenic Byway.
  • Stop: Tesla Supercharger (NACS) @ 570 N Montana St, Dillon.
  • Action: Charge to 90% (45 mins) to ensure you have enough electrons to "climb" the Pioneers.
  • Cost: $32.00 (@ $0.48/kWh incl. MT EV tax).

Leg 2: Polaris to Wise River (Pioneer Scenic Byway) — 40 Miles

• The Route: This is the heart of the mission. A winding, paved ascent to 7,800 feet at the Crystal Park summit.
• Capability Check: 35" Tires: Overkill for the pavement, but essential for the slushy pull-offs near the Coolidge Ghost Town turn-off.

Tactical Execution:

• Harvester Strategy: Use Hybrid/Sustain Mode. The generator provides the torque needed for the grade while keeping the cabin warm without draining the battery.
• BEV Strategy: Regenerative braking on the descent into Wise River will recover ~4-6% of your battery, but the initial climb from Polaris is an "electron hog" due to the weight of your 35s.

Leg 3: Wise River to Missoula via Philipsburg — 148 Miles

• The Route: MT-43 to the Pintler Scenic Highway (MT-1) and back onto I-90.
• Capability Check: Thermal Alert: As the sun sets, temps drop. The BEV will prioritize battery heating.

Tactical Execution:

• Harvester Strategy: No stops. You have ~200 miles of gas range remaining.
• BEV Strategy: Monitor your reserve. If the headwind on I-90 is strong, you may need a 10-minute "splash" charge in Anaconda (Discovery Family Center DCFC) to maintain your 15% reserve.

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III. The "Fuel & Flux" Summary Table​

Stop Location	Type	BEV Action	Harvester Action
Missoula	Start	100% Charge ($14)	100% Charge ($14)
Dillon, MT	Charge	+55kWh Charge ($26)	Drive Through
Polaris/Pioneers	Nature	Peak Elevation	Peak Elevation
Anaconda, MT	Support	Safety Buffer Check	Drive Through
Missoula	Home	Arrive 15%	Arrive 10% Gas/5% Bat
TOTALS	--	$58 / 7h 45m	$43 / 6h 15m

Export to Sheets
Note: Harvester cost includes $29.50 in Premium Gas (~8.5 gallons) + $14 initial charge.

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IV. Tactical Advice​

• The Seasonal Verdict: Your 35" tires and the October cold are the "tax" on this trip. In the BEV, they turn a 360-mile loop into a logistical puzzle because the 800V charging infrastructure hasn't reached the Big Hole Valley yet. You are forced to detour 15 miles south to Dillon to "fuel up" for the mountain pass.
• The Financial & Temporal Verdict: For this specific Montana loop, the Harvester is the superior tactical choice. Not only is it $15 cheaper due to the high cost of DC Fast Charging vs. current MT gas prices, but it saves you nearly 90 minutes of detour and dwell time in Dillon.
  
  

 

[TheManchot]

I did this trip back in October on my birthday. It’s cool to have a real world example between the two.

This is a high-altitude "Speed Run" through the Pioneer and Pintler ranges. In October, the thermal reality of Southwest Montana—where morning temperatures can dip to 25°F—will put your energy strategy to the test.
With 35" All-Terrain tires and a 15% Minimum Reserve, the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway presents a specific challenge: there is zero high-speed charging between Dillon and Anaconda.

I. The Mission Math (Comparison)​

Metric	Traveler BEV	Traveler Harvester
Total Range Strategy	1 Mandatory Charging Stop	0 Mid-Trip Stops
Est. Trip Duration	7h 45m (Incl. Charging/Detour)	6h 15m (Continuous)
Est. Energy Cost	$58.20 (Avg $0.16/mi)	$43.50 (Avg $0.12/mi)
Seasonal/Tire Status	Range -18% (Tires + Cold)	Efficiency -10% (Tires)
Route Integrity	Requires Detour to Dillon, MT	100% of Plan

Export to Sheets

---

II. Leg-by-Leg Tactical Breakdown​

Leg 1: Missoula to Polaris via I-15 — 172 Miles

• The Route: Paved high-speed Interstate (75-80 MPH) followed by MT-278.
• Capability Check: October Status: Roads clear, but temps are 40°F. Your 35" tires are creating significant drag at 80 MPH.

Tactical Execution:

• Harvester Strategy: Start with 100% charge from Missoula. Use EV-Only for the first 110 miles. The Generator will kick in seamlessly near Melrose, MT, to maintain battery levels for the climb to Polaris.
  • Stop: Tesla Supercharger (NACS) @ 570 N Montana St, Dillon.
  • Action: Charge to 90% (45 mins) to ensure you have enough electrons to "climb" the Pioneers.
  • Cost: $32.00 (@ $0.48/kWh incl. MT EV tax).

Leg 2: Polaris to Wise River (Pioneer Scenic Byway) — 40 Miles

• The Route: This is the heart of the mission. A winding, paved ascent to 7,800 feet at the Crystal Park summit.
• Capability Check: 35" Tires: Overkill for the pavement, but essential for the slushy pull-offs near the Coolidge Ghost Town turn-off.

Tactical Execution:

• Harvester Strategy: Use Hybrid/Sustain Mode. The generator provides the torque needed for the grade while keeping the cabin warm without draining the battery.
• BEV Strategy: Regenerative braking on the descent into Wise River will recover ~4-6% of your battery, but the initial climb from Polaris is an "electron hog" due to the weight of your 35s.

Leg 3: Wise River to Missoula via Philipsburg — 148 Miles

• The Route: MT-43 to the Pintler Scenic Highway (MT-1) and back onto I-90.
• Capability Check: Thermal Alert: As the sun sets, temps drop. The BEV will prioritize battery heating.

Tactical Execution:

• Harvester Strategy: No stops. You have ~200 miles of gas range remaining.
• BEV Strategy: Monitor your reserve. If the headwind on I-90 is strong, you may need a 10-minute "splash" charge in Anaconda (Discovery Family Center DCFC) to maintain your 15% reserve.

---

III. The "Fuel & Flux" Summary Table​

Stop Location	Type	BEV Action	Harvester Action
Missoula	Start	100% Charge ($14)	100% Charge ($14)
Dillon, MT	Charge	+55kWh Charge ($26)	Drive Through
Polaris/Pioneers	Nature	Peak Elevation	Peak Elevation
Anaconda, MT	Support	Safety Buffer Check	Drive Through
Missoula	Home	Arrive 15%	Arrive 10% Gas/5% Bat
TOTALS	--	$58 / 7h 45m	$43 / 6h 15m

Export to Sheets
Note: Harvester cost includes $29.50 in Premium Gas (~8.5 gallons) + $14 initial charge.

---

IV. Tactical Advice​

• The Seasonal Verdict: Your 35" tires and the October cold are the "tax" on this trip. In the BEV, they turn a 360-mile loop into a logistical puzzle because the 800V charging infrastructure hasn't reached the Big Hole Valley yet. You are forced to detour 15 miles south to Dillon to "fuel up" for the mountain pass.
• The Financial & Temporal Verdict: For this specific Montana loop, the Harvester is the superior tactical choice. Not only is it $15 cheaper due to the high cost of DC Fast Charging vs. current MT gas prices, but it saves you nearly 90 minutes of detour and dwell time in Dillon.View attachment 12761View attachment 12762

Based on your knowledge of the area, does it seem reasonably accurate?

 

[04Ram2500Hemi]

Based on your knowledge of the area, does it seem reasonably accurate?

It’s 100% accurate. In theory I could charge in Hamilton (about 50 miles into the trip), but there is no way to do the loop I did without a detour to charge in Dillon like it suggests. A stop in Dillon isn’t all bad, pizza at Pappa T’s is pretty damn good! But again, if you want to stick to the loop like I did, you can’t do it in the BEV.

 

[cyure]

It’s 100% accurate. In theory I could charge in Hamilton (about 50 miles into the trip), but there is no way to do the loop I did without a detour to charge in Dillon like it suggests. A stop in Dillon isn’t all bad, pizza at Pappa T’s is pretty damn good! But again, if you want to stick to the loop like I did, you can’t do it in the BEV.

This is exactly why I am glad they have both. For some it’s just not feasible to get a BEV.

 

[04Ram2500Hemi]

This is exactly why I am glad they have both. For some it’s just not feasible to get a BEV.

I actually have a real world test route in my mind that would be awesome to compare a Scout with and without the Harvester setup. The idea is to leave 60 seconds apart, and you have to set the cruise (when traffic allows) and the posted speed limit. 550 miles and three mountain passes with charging available on the way. It would be great to compare total time traveled, and cost to charge/fuel.

 

[04Ram2500Hemi]

I actually have a real world test route in my mind that would be awesome to compare a Scout with and without the Harvester setup. The idea is to leave 60 seconds apart, and you have to set the cruise (when traffic allows) and the posted speed limit. 550 miles and three mountain passes with charging available on the way. It would be great to compare total time traveled, and cost to charge/fuel.

According to the Gemini Machine (I bet it’s pretty close)

Traveling in April introduces a high probability of late-season slush on Lookout Pass (MT/ID border) and Snoqualmie Pass (WA). Your 35" All-Terrains provide the necessary bite for these conditions, but they create a significant aerodynamic tax at the "Speed Run" velocities you’ve requested.

I. The Mission Math (Comparison)​

Metric	Traveler BEV	Traveler Harvester
Total Range Strategy	2 DC Fast Charge Stops	1 Quick Refuel
Est. Trip Duration	9h 45m (incl. charging)	8h 35m (incl. fuel)
Est. Energy Cost	$102.00 (Avg $0.18/mi)	$114.00 (Avg $0.21/mi)
Seasonal/Tire Status	Range reduced ~18% (Tires + Cold)	MPG reduced ~12% (Tires + Grade)
Route Integrity	100% (Paved I-90 Corridor)	100% (Paved I-90 Corridor)

Export to Sheets

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II. Leg-by-Leg Tactical Breakdown​

Leg 1: Missoula, MT to Spokane, WA — 197 Miles

• The Route: I-90 West. Immediate climb over Lookout Pass (4,724 ft) followed by Fourth of July Pass.
• Capability Check: 35" Tires Confirmed: Superior traction for potential April slush on Lookout Pass.
  • Harvester Strategy: Depart with 100% Charge. Run in Auto Mode. The system will prioritize EV through Missoula, then engage the generator for the sustained climb up Lookout Pass to preserve battery buffer for the descent.
  • BEV Strategy: Depart 100%. The 35" tires and cold mountain air will drop efficiency to ~1.8 mi/kWh. You will arrive in Spokane with ~18% battery—just above your 15% minimum reserve.
  • Stop: Tesla Supercharger (NACS) @ 152 S Post St, Spokane, WA.
  • Stats: +35 min charge (to 80%) | Cost: $31.50

Leg 2: Spokane, WA to Ellensburg, WA — 172 Miles

• The Route: The "High Desert Blast." Relatively flat, but often plagued by heavy headwinds across the Columbia River basin.
• Capability Check: Wind Factor: Your 35" tires and higher stance increase drag. Expect the Harvester generator to run at higher RPMs to maintain 75+ MPH.
  • Harvester Strategy: Action: Maintain highway speeds. Stop: Quick splash of Premium Gas in Ritzville or Ellensburg to ensure total mission range.
  • Stop: Chevron @ Ellensburg, WA. +10 mins | Cost: $52.00 (14 gal @ $3.71).
  • BEV Strategy: Action: Drive 172 miles. Headwinds will be the primary enemy here.
  • Stop: Electrify America @ 606 S Main St, Ellensburg, WA.
  • Stats: +40 min charge (to 85%) | Cost: $38.00

Leg 3: Ellensburg, WA to Anacortes, WA — 178 Miles

• The Route: I-90 over Snoqualmie Pass, then North on I-5/Hwy 20.
• Capability Check: Route Logic: North Cascades Highway (SR-20) is likely CLOSED east of Anacortes in early April. We are sticking to the I-5 corridor for speed and reliability.
  • Harvester Strategy: Running on remaining gas/battery mix. Arrive at Union Tavern with ~10% battery and 2 gallons left.
  • BEV Strategy: Final push. Elevation loss from Snoqualmie Pass provides significant Regenerative Brakinggains, extending your final leg's viability. Arrive with ~20% reserve.

---

III. The "Fuel & Flux" Summary Table​

Stop Location	Type	BEV Action	Harvester Action
Missoula, MT	Start	100% Charge ($14)	100% Charge ($14)
Spokane, WA	Charge	Charge to 80% ($32)	Drive Through
Ellensburg, WA	Energy	Charge to 85% ($38)	Refuel 14gal ($52)
Anacortes, WA	Finish	Arrive (18% SOC)	Arrive (5% SOC)
TOTALS	--	$102 / 9h 45m	$114 / 8h 35m

Export to Sheets

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IV. Tactical Advice​

• Seasonal & Capability Verdict: Traveling in April means you're dodging the "shoulder season" bullet. Your 35" tires are a safety asset on the passes but a financial liability on the flats. If you had chosen the 33s, the BEV would likely only need 1.5 charging stops rather than 2 full sessions.
• The Financial & Temporal Verdict: On this specific 550-mile "Speed Run," the Harvester is the winner for efficiency of time, saving you roughly 70 minutes of stationary charging. However, the BEV is ~$12 cheaper to operate, as the high cost of Premium fuel in Washington offsets the savings of not stopping.

 

[J Alynn]

I actually have a real world test route in my mind that would be awesome to compare a Scout with and without the Harvester setup. The idea is to leave 60 seconds apart, and you have to set the cruise (when traffic allows) and the posted speed limit. 550 miles and three mountain passes with charging available on the way. It would be great to compare total time traveled, and cost to charge/fuel.

That would be cool to document that info

 

[TheManchot]

Based on some feedback, I added POIs and air down/air up.

 

[Jamie@ScoutMotors]

I don't want to discourage you guys as this is a fun exercise, but I have to caution that because EREVs are starting to become popular in a much, much broader set of configurations (RAM with a big battery, big fuel tank and big engine versus old data from the BMW i3 with a 3-cylinder motorcycle engine) there is very little actual real world data for AI to scrape through and make assumptions in answers that can't be relied on. Even the difference between RAM's EREV approach and Scout's EREV in a similar full-size pickup truck class should yield different real-world and mechanical experiences. And since neither vehicle is on the market, there aren't any hard numbers from testing published yet for AI to pull from.

I still think this is a really cool exercise, but I just wanted to caution on relying on any of it right now.

 

[TheManchot]

I don't want to discourage you guys as this is a fun exercise, but I have to caution that because EREVs are starting to become popular in a much, much broader set of configurations (RAM with a big battery, big fuel tank and big engine versus old data from the BMW i3 with a 3-cylinder motorcycle engine) there is very little actual real world data for AI to scrape through and make assumptions in answers that can't be relied on. Even the difference between RAM's EREV approach and Scout's EREV in a similar full-size pickup truck class should yield different real-world and mechanical experiences. And since neither vehicle is on the market, there aren't any hard numbers from testing published yet for AI to pull from.

I still think this is a really cool exercise, but I just wanted to caution on relying on any of it right now.

100% agree. Sadly/luckily we have no Scout vehicles yet to feed real-world data yet . That said, I think of it as expanding conceptual thinking rather than dictating a plan and which rig type.

 

[04Ram2500Hemi]

I don't want to discourage you guys as this is a fun exercise, but I have to caution that because EREVs are starting to become popular in a much, much broader set of configurations (RAM with a big battery, big fuel tank and big engine versus old data from the BMW i3 with a 3-cylinder motorcycle engine) there is very little actual real world data for AI to scrape through and make assumptions in answers that can't be relied on. Even the difference between RAM's EREV approach and Scout's EREV in a similar full-size pickup truck class should yield different real-world and mechanical experiences. And since neither vehicle is on the market, there aren't any hard numbers from testing published yet for AI to pull from.

I still think this is a really cool exercise, but I just wanted to caution on relying on any of it right now.

But @Jamie@ScoutMotors its on the interweb, so it has to be true!