General Motors is merging its BrightDrop division, which designs and manufactures light electric commercial vehicles, into Chevrolet, in order to leverage the latter’s sales and service network.

BrightDrop was founded by GM in 2021. Chevrolet was founded 112 years ago in 1911.

The move is intended to provide commercial customers with greater convenience when it comes to fleet maintenance and acquisition, by making the Chevrolet BrightDrop vehicles available through select Chevrolet dealerships.

The Chevrolet BrightDrop, formerly known as the BrightDrop Zevo, is an electric delivery van that was unveiled at the 2021 Consumer Electronics Show. The van is available in two models, namely the larger BrightDrop 600 (originally the Zevo 600) and the smaller BrightDrop 400 (formerly the Zevo 400).

“With the addition of BrightDrop to the Chevrolet lineup, we are combining advanced EV technology with the dependability and widespread accessibility that only Chevrolet can offer,” said Scott Bell, Vice President of the Chevrolet division. “This move strengthens our EV offerings and reaffirms our role as a leading commercial brand that enables businesses large and small to get work done.”

BrightDrop EVs offer a GM-estimated 272 miles (438 km) of city and highway driving and incorporate a variety of driver-assistance features including pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking and a rear-view camera. The vehicle has parking assistance and may be locked, unlocked or started remotely.

An unusual feature built into every BrightDrop van is that the steering wheel and seat are equipped with haptic technology, which will alert the driver of potential hazards through vibration.

While the Zevo name will disappear, the BrightDrop name will continue under Chevrolet’s stewardship. GM builds BrightDrop EVs at a plant in Ingersoll, Ontario that’s capable of turning out 50,000 vehicles per year.

Source: General Motors