The United States Postal Service has recently selected Quantum Fuel Systems to produce an advanced electric postal delivery vehicle that will be designed specifically for the needs of a delivery vehicle. This doesn’t just mean more storage space, but advanced features to maximize the efficiency of the electric drive system for the conditions that a postal service delivery truck usually encounters.

A one-year demonstration and validation program will be conducted by the USPS in Washington, DC. The design, chosen from among a small group of bidders, will be based on the Grumman Long Life Vehicle (LLV), which was designed for and is currently being used by the US Postal Service and Canada Post. The vehicle was also sold to Mexico and many other countries for delivery purposes. Success in Washington could mean electrification of the 178,000-strong LLV segment of the postal delivery fleet, and could set the trend for other delivery services throughout the world.

The original lifespan of the vehicle, which first began service in 1987, was specified by the US Postal Service as 24 years. In 2009, this became 30 years, which makes now an ideal time to start replacing the vehicles without having the classic models go to waste.

Quantum will integrate its Quantum Quiet high efficiency battery electric drive system into a Grumman LLV, which is currently produced by Grumman. The chassis of this vehicle is in turn made by General Motors. The Quiet electric drive system will incorporate advanced features to maximize the efficiency of the electric drive system while operating as a typical postal delivery vehicle should, with 500-700 stops per day.

Since the LLV will be produced locally, its widespread use will not only help lower emissions of greenhouse gases throughout the country, but it will also support the local electric vehicle industry.

View a previously written post by Mouli Cohen about clean energy.