The Postal Service has started the next phase of its Next Generation Delivery Vehicles initiative.
The initiative is a multi-phased approach to develop vehicles that will incorporate new technologies to accommodate a diversifying mail mix, improve safety and service, reduce emissions and produce operational savings.
Last year, USPS awarded supplier contracts to produce prototype vehicles. Delivery of these prototypes began in September.
“Real world” testing of the vehicles is occurring in various locations across the nation and will continue for the next several months.
“This testing will allow the Postal Service the opportunity to make an informed and educated decision on the future of our vehicle fleet based on carrier feedback and observations,” USPS said in a statement.