GM Expands Electric Vehicle Lineup with Two New Commercial EVs

General Motors Expands Zero-Emissions Commercial Vehicle Lineup

General Motors announced on Wednesday the addition of two new zero-emissions vehicles to its commercial offerings. This expansion focuses on bolstering its first-to-last-mile delivery business, BrightDrop.

New Vehicle Details

The initial addition is a battery electric cargo van marketed under the Chevrolet brand. This vehicle is anticipated to share similarities with the widely-used Chevy Express van.

Furthermore, a medium-duty truck is being developed. According to CEO Mary Barra, this truck will integrate both Ultium battery technology and Hydrotec hydrogen fuel cell technology.

Focus on Commercial Technologies

While GM’s investment in electric passenger vehicles has garnered significant attention, the company is simultaneously concentrating on providing zero-emitting technologies to commercial clients.

GM is prioritizing battery electric systems and hydrogen fuel cells, particularly for applications requiring substantial power and extended range.

Hydrogen Fuel Cell Partnerships

In January, GM revealed a plan to provide Hydrotec Hydrogen Fuel Cell Power Cubes to Navistar, a leading trucking manufacturer. The resulting hydrogen-powered trucks are projected to become available for purchase in 2024.

A collaborative agreement was also established with Wabtec to jointly develop hydrogen fuel cells and batteries specifically for locomotives.

BrightDrop Ecosystem

BrightDrop was launched in January with the aim of delivering a comprehensive suite of electric and connected products to commercial customers. A key initial contract was secured with FedEx.

The initial BrightDrop product line consisted of the EV600, an electric van with an estimated range of 250 miles, and the EP1, an electric pallet designed for efficient cargo transport.

Executives at BrightDrop had previously indicated ongoing development of additional products, including a vehicle for medium-distance transport of multiple EP1 pallets and a concept for a rapid load delivery system.

Comprehensive Electric Solutions

“With these new trucks, BrightDrop, the upcoming electric pickups from Chevrolet and GMC, our collaboration with Wabtec on locomotives, and our partnership with Navistar on semi-trucks, we will offer electric solutions for virtually any towing or hauling requirement,” Barra stated.