Macnab EV Sales is set to receive 126 electric cargo vans, passenger vans and shuttle buses from Lightning eMotors by the end of 2023

Lightning eMotors, a leading provider of zero-emission commercial electric vehicles, is partnering with Ingersoll, Ont.-based Macnab EV Sales Corp. to bring 126 zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) to the province by the end of this year.

This deal marks a significant milestone for both companies. This is the first time Macnab, a commercial vehicle distributor, is entering the commercial EV market, while Colorado-based Lightning eMotors is strengthening its presence in the Canadian market.

“It’s an honour — and a testament to the quality and reliability of our vehicles — to receive this order from Macnab as they begin their foray into commercial EVs,” said Tim Reeser, CEO of Lightning eMotors in a press statement. “We are proud they chose Lightning vehicles for their customer EV offering and look forward to getting these vehicles into customers’ hands this year as we further expand our footprint in Canada.”

The 126-vehicle deal includes a fleet of Lightening’s ZEV3 cargo and passenger vans and ZEV4 shuttle buses.

Deliveries of Lightning’s ZEV3 vans to Macnab are already starting and the full order of vehicles is to be complete by the end of this year. A Lightning eMotors ZEV3 Transit Cargo Van will be available for test drives this week at the EV & Charging Expo in Toronto.

Expanding presence in Canada

In 2021, Lightning made its first delivery of zero-emission battery-electric vehicles to Canada. Today, the medium- and heavy-duty zero-emission vehicle manufacturer has around a dozen clients and partners across the country.

Some of its partners include Canada Post, GoBolt, Crestline Coach Ltd., Frigid, Annex Distribution, Transmeda, Direct Bore, Cubex and 7Gen.

Last fall, Lightning said it had over 50 vehicles operating on Canadian roads. Today, Lightning says its current order backlog for Canada numbers more than 100 Class 3 and Class 4 vehicles.

Last November, Lightning joined Transport Canada’s pre-clearance program, which makes Lightning’s Class 3 to Class 7 electric commercial vehicles eligible for federal commercial vehicle purchase incentives. The approval meant Lightning could significantly expand its presence in the country — and the timing aligned with Macnab’s interest in becoming a commercial EV retailer.

“Lightning was a pleasure to work with,” said Matthew Bannon, president of Macnab, in the press note. “We are confident in our choice and look forward to deploying these [electric] vehicles at a variety of locations across Canada.”

Lightning also recently announced it increased production of its all-new ZEV4s, built on General Motors’ 4500 platform, featuring school bus, box truck and shuttle bus configurations.

Charging options as well

In addition, Lightning’s mobile DC fast charging system, called Lightning Mobile, is in manufacturing and will be available to customers soon. This charging system is suitable for both commercial and consumer electric vehicles. It consists of modular units with a battery capacity ranging from 105 to 420 kWh.

“A global leader in sustainability, Canada represents an important market in our international growth,” said Reeser in a press release announcing the Transport Canada pre-clearance program.

“Canada has a demonstrated interest in EV adoption, offering appealing funding options and forward-thinking electrification mandates that make fleet electrification not only necessary but advantageous for Canadian companies.”

For those interested in test driving the ZEV3, tickets for the EV & Charging Expo may be purchased here.