Surly got back to me. They have some interest, and they have been thinking of this on their own. But only if they can add unique value. I told them what I thought that would be. Briefly, I said I though the fancy folding comuter end was glutted and complicated, and that loaded touring, bulletproof, airmobile end was a good bet. Americans like ridical gear, that expands freedom, not ways to slide into their slot on public transit.
But as mentioned, it won't be quick, if at all.