Featured Build: Velocity’s Classic International Scout Restomod Heading To SEMA

Featured Build: Velocity’s Classic International Scout Restomod Heading To SEMA

The Scout name is coming back, but nothing beats the original!

After successful vehicle debuts at SEMA in 2017 and 2022, Velocity is at it again with another ground-breaking restomod build. This eye-catching classic International Scout II, crafted as part of SEMA’s Battle of the Builders competition, is bound to make waves in the automotive community, especially as the Scout name is poised for a revival as a Volkswagen-owned EV brand.

Sema Classic International Scout 2 RearThe BASF Carolina Blue really pops on this Scout, but the custom body decal adds a unique, eye-catching touch.

This vintage IH Scout restomod built by Velocity combines rugged off-road capability, cutting-edge performance components, and it is a shining example of the restomod trend sweeping the vintage truck scene.

Carolina Blue 1979 International Scout II Restomod

Velocity is no stranger to high-quality builds, having secured a reputation for crafting some of the finest custom vehicles, and this classic International Scout will further cement the Florida-based company as a leader in the restomod industry. Even among the glitz and glamour on display at SEMA, this truck will stand out with its vibrant BASF Glasurit Carolina Blue paint job—paint and bodywork provided by Dutch Boys—contrasted by matte black body decal stripes and blacked-out elements such as the 17-inch TR Beadlock wheels, J.W. Speaker LED headlights, and custom-made steel bumpers.

While this Scout is certainly a SEMA-worthy show truck, it is prepared for any terrain. The 3.5-inch lift and 35” Nitto Trail Grappler M/T tires are the most obvious ties to the Scout’s off-road past, but this modernized classic has been outfitted with a range of functional enhancements aimed at improving its off-road performance and utility while delivering a show-worthy appearance. The powder-coated front stinger bumper is equipped with a hidden Warn winch and recessed off-road lights from Rigid, and the rear bumper, also powder-coated, houses additional cube lights for improved visibility and practicality on the trail.

Sema Classic International Scout 2 EngineUnder the hood of this vintage IH Scout II restomod is a GM Performance 6.2L LS3 V8 that has been tuned to produce 525 hp!

Further accentuating the Scout’s off-road capability, this restomod rides on a Velocity Exclusive frame built by Roadster Shop. With this setup, the classic International Scout restomod from Velocity replaces the factory leaf spring suspension with a four-link setup and AFCO Racing coilovers at each corner and swaps out the drums brakes with Wilwood four-wheel disc brakes. The goal is for this restomod to drive like a modern truck on and off road, and its chassis setup has accomplished that mission. Under the hood, Velocity gave the Scout a 6.2L LS3 V8 paired with a 4L70-E four-speed automatic transmission and an Atlas two-speed transfer case. The fuel-injected V8 delivers an impressive 525 horsepower, and the Magnaflow muffler gives the engine a deep, throaty exhaust note worthy of a vintage off-roader.

Sema Classic International Scout 2 InteriorVelocity went all-out on the Scout II’s interior adding fine leather seats with woven leather inserts and high-tech gadgetry.

The interior of this restomod is a work of art in itself, blending modern luxury with a rugged sense of adventure. The cabin features Procar sport bucket seats up front and a rear fold-and-tumble bench seat, all wrapped in supple brown Italian leather with woven leather inserts—even the hardtop is lined with leather trim. The contrast between the refined upholstery and the utilitarian nature of the Scout’s cabin layout creates an inviting environment that’s as comfortable for a drive through the city as it is for a cross-country expedition. The Exclusive Dakota Digital gauges add to the high-tech cabin appearance, and the driving experience is enhanced further with the Alpine 10-inch digital head unit with premium Focal speakers, Alpine subwoofer, and an integrated backup camera.

Practicality is not overlooked, with a Vintage Air HVAC system ensuring comfort during hot summer trail rides. The family-style roll cage, powder-coated in black, not only adds a layer of safety but also serves as a visual reminder of this truck’s off-road capabilities. The attention to detail extends to the interior’s finishing touches, where custom-machined billet accents provide a high-end look that complements the Scout’s rugged persona. The bottom line is that Velocity transformed the rugged and practical old International Scout into a show-worthy custom restomod.

Here’s what the individual who commissioned this build had to say about his vintage 1979 IH Scout restomod:

 

“I love and wanted the Scout because of the uniqueness in that most people don’t know what it is, and to me, it’s the comeback story and the connection to old things being brought back to life. When I was looking for a [restoration] company [to build a custom Scout], I didn’t want to spare any expense, and as such, I wanted to find the company that could deliver in truly bringing something back to life. Velocity’s reputation and attention to detail made them the perfect partner.”

 

Not Velocity’s First SEMA Rodeo

Velocity’s previous builds have showcased its desire to set trends, not follow them; its 2017 Bronco helped initiate a wider use of the Gen3 5.0L Coyote V8 crate engine in this industry and, in 2022, helped spark the customization of non-traditional classics such as the Ford F-250 Highboy. The restomod unveiled at the 2024 SEMA Show highlights the burgeoning market for classic International Scouts, just ahead of next year’s production debut of Volkswagen-owned Scout Motors.

This year’s SEMA Show will feature many incredible vehicles, but few can match the presence and pedigree of Velocity’s vintage IH Scout II. This build demonstrates Velocity’s technical expertise and design prowess, exemplifying the evolution of restomodding from a niche hobby into a respected art form. Striking a perfect balance of form and function, this classic International Scout restomod from Velocity is set to captivate the SEMA audience and secure its place among the top restomods of the year.

Velocity and the Classic International Scout

Sema Classic International Scout 2 FrontVelocity’s custom SEMA Scout II has a menacing look with its custom-fabricated bumpers and robust 35” BFG tires.

Velocity has perfectly balanced the heritage of the IH Scout II with modern functionality, making it ideal for daily driving, car shows, or weekend off-roading. Collectors and enthusiasts now have the opportunity to purchase an authentic Scout that delivers classic style along with modern reliability, performance, and comfort. If you’re a fan of this classic International Scout restomod, stay tuned—there’s more excitement on the way. In 2025, we’ll begin building a series of classic Scouts to expand our lineup, including iconic Broncos, Blazers, Mustangs, and Ford and Chevy pickups. Contact Velocity today to reserve your spot for a vintage IH Scout build.

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