2026 Chevrolet BrightDrop Expert Review
Reviewed by Alex Leanse
Once a standalone brand under General Motors, BrightDrop became part of Chevrolet’s commercial fleet business in 2025. Still, 2026 Chevrolet BrightDrop vehicles remain focused on combining spacious versatility with zero-emissions driving for business operators and individuals.
These large commercial vans are available in two lengths and with several powertrain configurations, all with familiar Chevrolet features.
What’s New
Basics
- Extended Range battery pack available
- 19.2-kW integrated charging module now standard
- Optional 7.2-kW offboard AC power supply system
- Speed limiter for 75 mph on FWD models
Exterior
- Black-painted side doors discontinued
Interior
- Universal Vehicle Module becomes available to ease upfitting
What We Think
The Chevrolet BrightDrop surprises with how well it drives. Despite its large van form factor, it feels similar to other Chevrolet EVs on the road. The interior is basic and built for utility but includes useful tech features carried over from Chevrolet's passenger vehicles.
Software tools help managers track and improve efficiency across their fleets, and the new Universal Vehicle Module that becomes standard this year promises to ease integration of upfitting equipment. Now that the BrightDrop can supply offboard AC power, its potential as an electric workhorse increases.
Charging speeds aren’t especially fast, but they’re adequate for the van's likely role as a local delivery vehicle. Its long driving range may be pointless, as the Max Range battery could exceed the needs of most operators, making the smaller and less expensive Standard and Extended range packs appealing.
Fleet managers will need to determine if the BrightDrop vans’ somewhat high starting price will balance out against long-term operating and maintenance costs, but those who choose it will have an agreeable and versatile all-electric work vehicle.
Top-Ranked Competitors:
EV Range and Charging
As standard, BrightDrop vans have a single front electric motor that makes 233 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. The optional dual-motor AWD powertrain produces 300 hp and 390 lb-ft.
The range estimates Chevrolet cites are likely for the shorter BrightDrop 400 with FWD. With the Standard Range battery, range is up to 176 miles. The new Standard Range battery introduced this year can provide 204 miles and is available on all configurations. For up to 285 miles of range, the Max Range battery is available in AWD-equipped models.
For 2026, charging hardware is upgraded to raise the Level 2 charging capacity to 19.2 kW. However, if the new optional 7.2-kW AC offboard power supply system is chosen, the van’s Level 2 charge limit remains at 11.5 kW. On a Level 3 DC fast charger, the BrightDrop can charge at up to 120 kW, adding 160 miles of range per hour under ideal conditions.
Safety Features
All 2026 BrightDrop models come equipped with driver-assist and active safety features including:
- Front automatic emergency braking
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Intersection collision avoidance
- Lane keep assist
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Adaptive cruise control
- Automatic high-beams
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
BrightDrop 400 vs. 600: Size and Dimensions
As the designations imply, the BrightDrop 400 is smaller than the BrightDrop 600. Those numbers roughly reference each version’s interior capacity—412.1 cubic feet in the BrightDrop 400 and 614.7 cubic feet in the BrightDrop 600.
Wheelbase length is 153.1 inches for the BrightDrop 400 and 183.5 inches for the 600. Overall lengths are 238.6 and 290.0 inches, respectively.
Maximum Payload
In the BrightDrop 400, the payload capacity is 3,710 pounds, achieved by pairing FWD with the Standard Range battery. For the 600 model, maximum payload is 3,480 pounds with the same powertrain configuration.
Technology
Infotainment
An 11.0-inch digital driver’s display and an 11.3-inch infotainment touchscreen are standard. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, along with Google built-in apps like Maps.
There are two USB ports, one type-A and one type-C. A 5G Wi-Fi hotspot is standard.
General Motors’ OnStar system provides telematics and safety connectivity.
Sound System
All BrightDrop models have a basic two-speaker audio system.
Available Upgrades
Power-opening cargo and side doors can be equipped on the BrightDrop. An optional Universal Vehicle Module enables synchronization from aftermarket upfitting equipment directly with the vehicle.
Value
Pricing for the BrightDrop starts at around $65,000 before any incentives or rebates are applied.
Standard equipment includes two front seats, dual digital dashboard displays, six cargo tie-downs, a fire extinguisher, LED interior lighting, one-touch-down side windows, and a variety of driver assist and active safety features.
