Meet Our Fleet

Every November, we tuck our one-of-a-kind fleet of vintage vehicles away for the winter to keep them in tip-top shape. But before they head into hibernation, let's take a look back at how these iconic rides came to be.

It all started with a few beat-up white delivery vans.

In the early days of Upper Canada Brewing Company, Steam Whistle's predecessor, Co-Founders Cam and Greg had an idea: what if they took some plain white vans to a big graffiti festival in Toronto?

The vans came back covered in colourful artwork, and the reaction was immediate. As Greg recalls, people were cheering, waving and complimenting the newly decorated vehicles wherever they went.

"People everywhere were yelling, 'Right on! Hey, nice van!' And I'm like, wow, people are really freaking out; this is great."

That was the moment the idea clicked. Why not find an antique vehicle that matched the brand's old-school look and feel, then drive it around like a one-vehicle parade?

And just like that, Steam Whistle's vintage beer delivery fleet was born.

Today, our collection combines classic vehicles, custom designs and a few modern twists. Meet the fleet.

1. The Steam Machine: A '70s-Inspired Party Van

Vehicle: 1967 Ford Econoline Heavy Duty

With its wild graphics and retro personality, the Steam Machine takes inspiration from the groovy vans of the 1970s. Our talented in-house design team gave this classic Ford Econoline its unmistakable Scooby-Doo-inspired look, turning it into one of the most recognizable rides in our fleet.

But this van isn't just for show. Chrome draught taps make pouring beer at outdoor events easy, making it a favourite of our Promotions team and event bartenders.

Keep an eye out for the Steam Machine at Steam Whistle-sponsored events across Ontario. If there's a party to be had, this van might just be there.

The highlights

• Custom '70s-inspired graphics

• Chrome draught taps for on-site pours

• Classic Ford Econoline styling

2. The Steam Weaver: A Party on Wheels

Vehicle: 1973 Dodge Tradesman

If the Steam Machine is a party, the Steam Weaver is the after-party.

Inspired by the legendary boogie vans and disco culture of the '70s, this 1973 Dodge Tradesman goes all in on retro style. Inside, you'll find shag carpeting, velour upholstery, pom-pom window fringe, and a horseshoe-shaped bench that converts into a bed. There's even a high-powered stereo system to complete the experience.

And, of course, no Steam Whistle vehicle would be complete without beer taps. Two draught taps on the side make serving beer a breeze.

Currently stationed in Quebec, the Steam Weaver hits the road to visit our retail and licensed establishment customers.

The highlights

• Shag carpet and velour upholstery

• Horseshoe bench that converts into a bed

• High-powered stereo system

• Two side-mounted draught taps

3. Chuckles: The Van That Makes People Smile

Vehicle: 1957 Dodge Postal Panel Van

Some vehicles turn heads. Chuckles gets people grinning.

Named for the smiles and chuckles it inspires, this one-of-a-kind Dodge Postal Panel Van is a rare sight on the road. Before joining the Steam Whistle fleet, Chuckles belonged to a private owner in Richmond Hill, Ontario, who had already put considerable work into restoring it.

We took things even further, upgrading the engine, transmission, suspension, frame and interior. By the time Chuckles arrived at the brewery, it was gleaming and ready to get back to work delivering beer.

Its flat nose and short wheelbase make it surprisingly nimble, while the roll-up rear door and two draught taps make it as practical as it is distinctive.

The highlights

• Classic postal van design

• Upgraded engine, transmission and suspension

• Short wheelbase for tight turns

• Two draught taps

4. Retro Electro: Old-School Looks, Electric Power

Vehicle: 1958 Chevrolet Apache

Vintage style meets modern sustainability in Retro Electro, our all-electric take on a classic Chevrolet Apache pickup.

Built to celebrate our love of vintage vehicles and more sustainable beer making, this truck started life with a traditional gas-powered engine. We replaced it with an electric drive system sourced from a Nissan Leaf, giving this classic pickup a completely new lease on life.

The result is a truck that looks straight out of the past but runs on modern electric technology. It's a fitting combination of old-school character and forward-thinking engineering.

The highlights

• 100% electric conversion

• Nissan Leaf electric drive system

• Approximately 120 horsepower

• DC fast-charging capability

5. The Scout: A Classic Off-Roader Goes Electric

Vehicle: 1970 International Harvester Scout 800A (EV Edition)

The Scout has always been built for adventure. Originally manufactured by International Harvester between 1961 and 1980, this rugged off-roader is a rare find, especially with its removable hardtop.

We discovered ours on a horse farm in Newmarket, Ontario. Through a custom partnership with Beachman, we gave this classic 4x4 a zero-emission second life, pairing its vintage looks with an electric powertrain.

The Scout now spends the warmer months cruising around Ontario's Niagara region, delivering beer and visiting customers. With its classic styling, selectable four-wheel drive and electric power, it's proof that a little history and a little innovation go a long way.

The highlights

• 100% electric powertrain

• 2019 Nissan Leaf motor and 40 kWh battery

• Estimated range of 150–200 km

• Retained four-speed manual transmission and selectable four-wheel drive

• Interchangeable hardtop and convertible soft top