Scout Motors

On this episode of the South Carolina Lede for April 21, 2026: we have a bit of an econ pod as we discuss the economy with Dr. Joey Von Nessen; we have a Gavin Open Seas Maritime Report (GOSMAR) with SC Ports CEO Micah Mallace; we also visit Scout Motors’ newly opened training facility and talk costs and labor; and more!

Mike Switzer interviews Jessica Holdman, a reporter with the South Carolina Daily Gazette, about a new solar factory coming to Laurens County and a dispute over land development cost overruns at Scout Motors in Richland County.

Mike Switzer interviews Jessica Holdman, a reporter with the South Carolina Daily Gazette, about a new solar factory coming to Laurens County and a dispute over land development cost overruns at Scout Motors in Richland County.

Mike Switzer interviews Alan Cooper, founder and editor of three online business news websites in South Carolina.

Mike Switzer interviews Alan Cooper, founder and editor of three online business news websites in South Carolina.

Mike Switzer interviews Jessica Holdman, a reporter with the South Carolina Daily Gazette in Columbia, SC

Mike Switzer interviews Jessica Holdman, a reporter with the South Carolina Daily Gazette in Columbia, SC

Mike Switzer interviews John McDermott, business editor of the Post and Courier in Charleston, SC, who has news about Scout Motors, shipping, energy rate hikes, and travel issues.

Mike Switzer interviews John McDermott, business editor of the Post and Courier in Charleston, SC, who has news about Scout Motors, shipping, energy rate hikes, and travel issues.

Volkswagen-backed Scout Motors has secured $1.3 billion from South Carolina to build its only North American Scout Motors plant near Columbia, but its push to sell directly to customers has created controversy across the state.