Built from the ground up for commercial use, the Chevy BrightDrop is a delivery powerhouse that can cover serious miles, haul real weight, and cut fuel costs out of the picture. The 2026 model adds new battery options, better charging, and plenty of space inside to keep it competitive as more fleets make the switch to electric. Let's break down the many features in the 2026 BrightDrop.
Key Takeaways
- A new Extended Range battery gives you up to 204 miles per charge, while the Max Range setup unlocks as much as 286 miles.
- Payload ratings remain strong, with the short 400 model topping out at 3,710 pounds.
- Every version now includes a 19.2-kW onboard charger for faster Level 2 charging.
BrightDrop Changes and Trims for 2026
A new Extended Range battery fills the gap between the base pack and the Max Range, rated at 204 miles per charge. All BrightDrop models now include a faster 19.2-kW onboard charger, which means less downtime between shifts if you’ve got a capable setup.
There’s also an optional power offboarding feature that lets the van act as a giant mobile generator, though choosing it drops you back to the slower 11.5-kW onboard charger.
The trim and pricing structure looks like this:
- 400: $67,925
- 600: $69,425
- 400 Extended Range: $84,000 (est.)
- 600 Extended Range: $86,000 (est.)
- 400 Max Range: $90,000 (est.)
- 600 Max Range: $91,000 (est.)
BrightDrop Engine Power and Payload Capacity
The BrightDrop lineup sticks with a simple formula: either a single-motor front-wheel-drive model with 240 horsepower, or a dual-motor all-wheel-drive version with 300 horsepower. Neither is about tire-smoking acceleration, but both deliver steady, predictable power.
The short-wheelbase 400 in four-wheel drive form has the best payload rating, maxing out at 3,710 pounds. Step up to all-wheel drive, and that figure drops slightly to 3,480 pounds. The longer 600 models carry a little less (3,350 pounds in four-wheel drive and 3,130 in all-wheel drive), but they make up for it with added interior volume.
Chevy now offers three different battery setups for the BrightDrop. The standard pack range is approximately 180 miles for the 600 and 178 miles for the 400. New Extended Range bumps that up to 204 miles regardless of body size or drivetrain. And the big-ticket Max Range option, available only with all-wheel drive, delivers up to 286 miles.
BrightDrop Interior Space and Tech Features
While comfortable, the BrightDrop isn't about creature comforts—it's about getting work done. Officially, it’s a two-seater, though the passenger side uses a fold-down jump seat that works fine for short stints. A wide side door makes deliveries faster and easier than the swing doors on the old Express van.
The 400 model offers 412 cubic feet of cargo room, while the longer 600 stretches that to 615 cubic feet. Both have ample space for customization with shelves, racks, or bins.Every BrightDrop gets an 11.1-inch infotainment display paired with an 11-inch digital gauge cluster. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and GM’s OnStar telematics platform is available to make fleet operations even easier.
Should You Make the Switch?
The BrightDrop is a practical, all-electric replacement, with the range, payload, and tech to fit right into modern fleets. It will be out sometime in early 2026, so make sure to stop by our Banner Chevrolet showroom, and we’ll walk you through the options that make the most sense for your business.