Am general mail trucks

The iconic General Mail Trucks!

The General Mail Trucks, also known as the Grumman LLV (Long Life Vehicle), have been the workhorses of the United States Postal Service (USPS) since 1987. Here are some interesting facts about these trusty vehicles:

  1. Design and Production: The Grumman LLV was designed and manufactured by Grumman Corporation, a leading aerospace and defense company. The trucks were produced from 1987 to 1994, with a total of 88,669 units built.
  2. Purpose: The LLV was designed specifically for the USPS to replace the aging fleet of mail trucks. Its primary purpose was to efficiently transport mail and packages across the country.
  3. Features: The LLV has a 20-foot-long body, a 6.5-foot-wide cargo area, and a 10,000-pound gross vehicle weight rating. It's powered by a 6.9-liter V8 engine, producing 180 horsepower. The truck has a top speed of 65 mph.
  4. Fuel Efficiency: The LLV was designed to be fuel-efficient, with an estimated 10-12 miles per gallon in city driving and 15-18 miles per gallon on the highway.
  5. Maintenance: The LLV was designed to be easy to maintain, with a simple design and few complex systems. This has contributed to its longevity and low maintenance costs.
  6. Longevity: Despite being designed to last for 20 years, many LLVs have exceeded their expected lifespan, with some still in service today. The USPS has extended the life of the LLV fleet through various maintenance and repair programs.
  7. Retirement: In 2013, the USPS began phasing out the LLV fleet, replacing them with newer, more fuel-efficient vehicles. However, many LLVs are still in service, and some have been converted into private vehicles or used for other purposes.
  8. Cultural Significance: The LLV has become an iconic symbol of the USPS, representing the reliability and dedication of postal workers. It's often featured in popular culture, such as in movies, TV shows, and advertisements.

The General Mail Trucks have played a vital role in the USPS's operations for decades, and their legacy continues to be felt today.