As some of Canada’s incentives for medium- and heavy-duty zero-emission vehicles begin to phase out, there are still meaningful opportunities for fleet managers to secure rebates on BrightDrop EVs.
💰 Under Transport Canada’s iMHZEV Program, the BrightDrop Zevo 600 and Zevo 400 cargo vans are eligible for rebates of up to $40,000 per vehicle. This funding supports the shift toward zero-emission fleets and applies to new medium- or heavy-duty vehicles that meet the program’s criteria, including weight class and manufacturing origin.
At Sterling, we’ve seen a steady increase in demand for BrightDrop upfits across industries—from last-mile delivery to utilities. When properly upfitted, the BrightDrop cargo van becomes a smart, high-efficiency solution for commercial work in dense urban environments.
But it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. The BrightDrop van’s construction is unique, and your upfit plan should reflect that. Here are five key things to consider:
1. Lightweight Body Construction
The BrightDrop is engineered to be lightweight, maximizing battery life. However, this limits what can be mounted directly to the interior walls. At Sterling, we design a custom internal frame to securely support shelving and equipment—ensuring a quiet, stable ride.
2. No-Drill Floating Floors
Because the battery is housed in the van’s floor, drilling can compromise safety and void the OEM warranty. Using no-drill flooring eliminates this risk by securely mounting without penetrating the floor structure.
3. Purpose-Built Upfits
Only include what your team actually needs. A leaner upfit means less weight, greater battery range, and more efficient mobile workspaces.

Brightdrop 400 – Upfit for Utilities Work

Brightdrop 400 – Upfit for Mechanical Work
4. Lightweight Materials
Every pound matter in an EV. That’s why we recommend Packd aluminum shelving and accessories—engineered to be both durable and ultra-lightweight, helping you preserve vehicle range without compromising functionality.
5. Work with a Certified Upfitter
A BrightDrop van is a major investment—even with rebates. Partnering with a certified upfitter who understands the vehicle’s unique design ensures you protect your OEM warranty and get a fit-for-purpose solution tailored to your work.
✅ Sterling is a Certified Ship-Thru Partner for BrightDrop. Contact us today for help with your upfit.
Sterling Fleet Outfitters is a leading provider of upfitting solutions for work trucks and vans, offering a range of innovative products across North America. Get in touch if you would like to know more about our services.
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