We Need to Keep the Chevrolet Express Alive as the Last Traditional Full-Sized Van
You can’t deny it: a lot has changed in the last few decades. But the Chevrolet Express, and its GMC Savana twin, is one thing that has remained constant in the automotive landscape. Should we really let it go?
Three Decades of Hard Work
Like the custodians at your old junior high school, full-sized vans often go unnoticed until they’re gone. But after years of service, maybe the Express deserves something more than a gold watch.
To many, the “Chevy Van” was a constant fixture, dating back to 1971. It’s been everything from a phone company vehicle to a custom conversion with shag carpet and bubble windows.
In late 1995, the new Express/Savannah arrived on the scene with a smoothed-out design, wrapping taillights, and a more aerodynamic nose. It followed the same design principles as the 1988 GMT400 pickup trucks, with simple but functional aesthetics.
Even today, the Express/Savana has aged well, and the basic body offers a clean slate for updates. Wouldn’t it be great to see it with a modern refresh?
Cheap Is Good
Reports suggest the Express and Savana are on borrowed time. Traditional Dodge vans died in 1998, and Ford’s E-Series was discontinued as a standard van in 2014. GM seems poised to replace the Express with the new Brightdrop EV van.
While the Brightdrop is a move toward the future, it’s not a traditional van. The Express and its competitors have become an American mainstay, and the old-school vans still have advantages. Because of this, and its low cost, it’s still a great buy for businesses.
While a new Brightdrop will cost around $78,000, a new Express can quickly exceed $50,000. Price is a major factor for businesses buying multiple vans.
With a refresh, the Express/Savana could take on a new life.
Version 1: ExpressEV
Let’s start with a basic refresh of the Express/Savannah. Imagine a front end similar to the Silverado EV, but with sealed beam units, new steel wheels, and a blacked-out “A” pillar.
In the rear, body-colored side trims would transition to grey or black plastic, connecting to the bumper and featuring LED taillights.
This is because it would be electric. However, a hybrid with a gasoline range extender makes sense. The idea is to include a small four-cylinder that acts as a range extender, with a single motor powering a rear-wheel drivetrain.
Having a range extender makes sense for a workhorse that needs to keep moving all day.
Version 2: Heritage Edition
What if we went the other way and backdated the Express, like some do with classic Porsche 911s? The “Heritage” version could pay homage to the Chevy vans of yesteryear.
We could recreate the original 1971 nose with round headlights, but this time they would glow as daytime running lights. The owner could then customize the van to their liking.
Version 3: Express SS ZL1
Why not go full muscle car? The Express/Savana offers a body-on-frame setup with a big motor up front and a live rear axle.
A supercharged V8, ground effects, wide tires, big brakes, and a roof wing would complete the look. Inside, there would be more premium options, but it would still retain the original practicality.
It would be a perfect 22nd car for someone. Furthermore, with a pace car edition, it might even get some more recognition.
Last Van Standing
While the Brightdrop has its place, General Motors has nothing to lose by keeping the old van around. There’s a market for it. I’ve offered a few options, but there are many more possibilities. The Express van can be whatever you make it. Isn’t that what van culture is all about?
