As you progress through the world of Outbound, you will encounter various landmarks accompanied by mini-puzzles. One of the most significant hurdles occurs when you reach the third landmark: the windmill. Because the windmill is situated up a steep slope, your current vehicle won't have the power to make the climb. To overcome this obstacle, you must learn how to research and craft the motor upgrade to increase your vehicle's capabilities.

How to Unlock the Motor Upgrade Research

The process for obtaining this specific technology isn't immediately obvious, which can lead to frustration if you aren't aware of the necessary steps. To unlock the ability to improve your engine, you need to utilize the signal towers scattered throughout the map.

Follow these steps to find the necessary blueprints:

  • Drive to as many signal towers as possible.
  • Use your download coupons at each tower location.
  • Continue downloading data until the option for the vehicle research station appears.

The number of towers required can vary significantly depending on your previous choices, but in our playthrough, it took 12 signal towers to finally unlock the research option.

Crafting the Motor Upgrade

Once you have successfully downloaded the vehicle research station blueprint, it is time to prepare for the actual construction. You cannot build this at a standard workbench; instead, you must integrate it directly into your mobile base.

Building the Research Station

Head back to your camper and enter building mode. You will need to place the vehicle research station on one of the counters inside your van. Once placed, the station provides a branching menu with several different technological paths and upgrade choices.

Gathering Required Materials

To complete the specific motor upgrade, you will need to gather certain resources before you can finalize the craft. The requirements are as follows:

  • 10 Bolts

If you are low on supplies, don't worry—you can manufacture these yourself. Use your bolt press machine to craft bolts out of collected scrap metal. Once you have the materials and the station ready, you'll be able to power through that steep slope and continue your journey toward the windmill.