Just a week after Democrat lawmakers usher President Biden to transition the federal government’s vehicle fleet to more efficient options, the USPS makes a huge announcemet. It will add 50,000 to 165,000 electric or fuel-efficient vehicles. This is one of the largest electric vehicle transitions in the US. In fact, the Postal Service’s fleet contains more than 230,000 vehicles in every class. This includes both purpose-built and commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) vehicles.
According to a press release, the USPS signed a 10-year contract with Wisconsin-based Oshkosh Defense. Under the initial $482 million investment, they will design and manufacture the Next Generation Delivery Vehicle (NGDV). Furthermore, Oshkosh Defense will retrofit the fleet to stay up to date with advancing electric vehicle technology. Expect to see the first round of NGDVs in 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.”
Advanced safety technology and efficiency
Oshkosh Defense plans to equip the NGDVs with top of the line safety precaution technology. For example, 360-degree cameras, advanced braking and traction control, as well as a collision avoidance system. The vehicles will also be made more spacious to maximize efficiency and cargo capacity.
“Our fleet modernization also reflects the Postal Service’s commitment to a more environmentally sustainable mix of vehicles,” DeJoy said. “Because we operate one of the largest civilian government fleets in the world, we are committed to pursuing near-term and long-term opportunities to reduce our impact on the environment.”
Oshkosh Defense has several manufacturing facilities across the US. However, they are still deciding on a location for this contract. They want to ensure it’s the best location to possibly increase the production rate of the vehicles.
Author bio: Eillin Delapaz is an environmental writer and assistant media producer for Green Living Guy®
