GM's BrightDrop electric vans may not be done just yet. After nearly four months of uncertainty, an unexpected lifeline may be taking shape. GM had announced it would end production of the vans at its Ontario plant in Canada, effectively shutting down one of its more high-profile EV ventures.
Now, a European engineering firm has reportedly shown interest in buying the facility and restarting production. The company in question is Dumarey Group, a Belgium-based engineering and manufacturing firm that acquired GM's propulsion engineering center in Turin, Italy, in 2020. According to a recent report, the group aims to build BrightDrop vans in Canada, then ship them across the Atlantic to European markets.
This could be great news for workers at the plant, many of whom have been facing an uncertain future since GM announced it would stop production. However, a significant number of the laid-off employees remain on GM's callback list in case production resumes on a new vehicle at the CAMI facility. The plant began producing BrightDrop electric vans in 2022 but struggled to maintain momentum despite being folded into Chevrolet to bolster visibility and sales.
An unexpected lifeline may be taking shape, with Dumarey Group reportedly planning to tour the Ingersoll plant soon. A diversified firm like Dumarey could bring new technologies and expertise to the plant, potentially boosting production and creating jobs for workers on GM's callback list. The future of the CAMI assembly plant remains uncertain, but a potential deal with Dumarey Group may offer a glimmer of hope for those affected by GM's decision.
If successful, this acquisition could demonstrate the viability of electric vans in Canada and potentially pave the way for more sustainable transportation options. With its diverse portfolio of technologies, Dumarey Group may be well-positioned to bring new life to the CAMI plant.
