GM Halting Operations at Canadian Facility, Yet Tariffs Aren't Its Main Worry | Carscoops

GM Halting Operations at Canadian Facility, Yet Tariffs Aren't Its Main Worry | Carscoops

      Production of the Chevrolet BrightDrop vans is set to conclude, restart, terminate again, and then resume once more in the upcoming months.

      GM is temporarily suspending the manufacture of BrightDrop 400 and 600 models at the CAMI Assembly Plant in Canada. Due to sluggish sales, these vans have been accumulating, prompting the company to begin laying off workers starting next week. After intermittent production, the plant will shift to a single shift schedule in October.

      Initially, GM had ambitious plans for the BrightDrop brand, but that excitement has diminished, leading to the vans being incorporated into the Chevrolet lineup. This shift was intended to enhance sales and availability, but has not significantly improved the situation, as many unrequested vans have accumulated.

      Considering the increasing inventory levels, it is understandable that the company has opted to temporarily stop production at CAMI Assembly in Ingersoll, Ontario. This Canadian facility began BrightDrop production in late 2022 and currently employs over 1,200 individuals.

      Temporary Layoffs and Production Changes

      As reported by Unifor, GM plans to initiate temporary layoffs on April 14, after which employees will be recalled for limited production in May. After this period, production will cease again to allow for retooling in preparation for the 2026 model assembly.

      When production resumes in October, the plant will transition to a single shift indefinitely, resulting in the “indefinite layoff of nearly 500 workers,” according to the union.

      Unifor National President Lana Payne described these actions as a “crushing blow” and urged the automaker to “do everything in its power to reduce job losses during this challenging time.” She also called on the government to provide support for Canadian auto workers and Canadian-manufactured products.

      Payne specifically emphasized the importance of promoting the 400 and 600 vans, presenting them as a “smart choice for Canadian businesses, government agencies, and our economy.” This was a clear suggestion for government purchase of these electric delivery vans.

      While BrightDrop’s difficulties are not new, Payne took this chance to criticize the Trump administration, claiming that it has caused “industry turmoil.” She stated that “Trump’s short-sighted tariffs and rejection of EV technology is disrupting investment and freezing future order projections,” suggesting this has opened the door for China and other foreign automakers to dominate the global EV market.

      Pricing Challenges

      Regarding the vans, BrightDrop's models begin at $77,900, offering up to 614.7 cubic feet (17,406 liters) of cargo space and a combined range of up to 272 miles (438 km).

      In contrast, competing electric vans are priced lower, with the Ford E-Transit Cargo starting at $51,000 and the Mercedes eSprinter priced at $61,180. Although this comparison is somewhat uneven, it’s evident why numerous BrightDrop vans are languishing at dealerships.

      Despite these challenges, Unifor pointed out that the company is committed to the CAMI Assembly facility, and the 2026 vans will be receiving “upgrades.” The specifics of these enhancements are yet to be revealed, but there is hope for a smaller battery pack to help lower the price.

GM Halting Operations at Canadian Facility, Yet Tariffs Aren't Its Main Worry | Carscoops GM Halting Operations at Canadian Facility, Yet Tariffs Aren't Its Main Worry | Carscoops GM Halting Operations at Canadian Facility, Yet Tariffs Aren't Its Main Worry | Carscoops GM Halting Operations at Canadian Facility, Yet Tariffs Aren't Its Main Worry | Carscoops

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GM Halting Operations at Canadian Facility, Yet Tariffs Aren't Its Main Worry | Carscoops

The production of the Chevrolet BrightDrop van will cease, resume, halt, and then commence once more in the upcoming months.