The U.S. Postal Delivery fleet is about to get a much-needed modernization
Oshkosh Defense (based in Oshkosh, WI) will finalize the production design of the Next Generation Delivery Vehicle (NGDV) for the U.S. Postal Delivery Vehicle fleet. This is a purpose-built, right-hand-drive vehicle for mail and package delivery. Oshkosh Defense will assemble 50,000 to 165,000 NGDVs over 10 years.
Many U.S. Postal delivery vehicles have been in the fleet for 30-years. The Grumman LLVs, which are still being used by the U.S. Postal Service, were built between 1987 and 1994. Current LLVs are sparse, lack modern safety equipment, and are not very user-friendly. Based on old General Motors technology, these delivery vans were supposed to be in service for no more than 24 years.
“The vehicles will be equipped with either fuel-efficient internal combustion engines or battery electric powertrains. (They) can be retrofitted to keep pace with advances in electric vehicle technologies. The initial investment includes plant tooling and build-out for the U.S. manufacturing facility where final vehicle assembly will occur.” – – USPS
Aside from modernizing the drivetrains, Oshkosh will be adding modern safety systems like a 360-degree camera, front and rear collision avoidance system, automated emergency braking and airbags. It will also benefit from decadent luxuries like heating and air-conditioning.
The NGDVs are expected to be in service by 2023.
“As the American institution that binds our country together, the U.S. Postal Service can have a bright and modern future. If we make investments today that position us for excellence tomorrow,” said Postmaster General and USPS Chief Executive Officer Louis DeJoy. “The NGDV program expands our capacity for handling more package volume and supports our carriers. With cleaner and more efficient technologies, more amenities, and greater comfort and security as they deliver every day on behalf of the American people.”
The contract will include an initial $482 million investment from the USPS. This will allow Oshkosh to finalize the design of the NGDV, and to begin the tooling of an assembly plant. The USPS will be able to order more of the vehicles throughout the run of the 10-year contract.
Here are several other commercial vans of the future. We discuss this topic on our TFL Talkin’ Trucks podcast.
