FRANKFURT, Germany: This week, Volkswagen-backed automotive company Scout Motors said it will construct a $2 billion electric truck and SUV manufacturing plant near Columbia, South Carolina.

Last week, Scout Motors and South Carolina officials said that the plant will be constructed in Blythewood at an industrial site, and will have an annual capacity of more than 200,000 vehicles.

In a news release, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster's office said the plant is expected to create more than 4,000 permanent jobs, adding that production is targeted to begin by the end of 2026.

Virginia-based Scout Motors will assemble all-electric trucks and SUVs in the style of the Scout vehicles produced by International Harvester from 1960 to 1980.

In a statement, McMaster said, "Scout Motors will provide thousands of South Carolinians with previously unimagined opportunities and prosperity for generations to come. The Palmetto State, with its rich history, superior people, and sterling automotive manufacturing reputation, is the perfect place to re-start this iconic American brand."

State officials said that the Scout deal is expected to receive county-level tax incentives that have been initially approved.