The current United States Postal Service mail truck was designed all the way back in 1987. Known as the Grumman LLV, it has certainly been around longer than most folks expected. But finally, the Postal Service is getting a new delivery vehicle which is being built by Oshkosh Defense. With a mail truck that is going on 30 years old, it’s not surprising that this vehicle lacks some creature comforts. And apparently, that includes things like air conditioning and even airbags. 

Do mail trucks have A/C?

Now, there’s no doubting that the Grumman LLV is an iconic vehicle, but from the factory, it did not come equipped with A/C. Because of that, during the hot months, you have likely seen a mail carrier driving with their doors open. That way, they can get some relief from the heat. 

If lacking A/C was not enough, the LLV is notorious for having an unreliable heating system. While some models may have been upgraded to have better heating, it’s certainly nothing to write home about. 

Are the new mail trucks better than the Grumman LLV?

While it will certainly take some time to get used to seeing new mail trucks on the road, the Oshkosh NGDV is an improvement over the LLV. Not only will it feature air conditioning, but it will also offer modern safety tech. And that is something that mail carriers are certain to appreciate. 

Additionally, the Oshkosh NGDV has the ability to come with an electric powertrain. And after some serious pressure from multiple places, the USPS decided to increase its order of EV mail trucks. Because of this, the Postal Service should be able to operate more efficiently. 

Is the Grumman LLV being retired?

According to NPR, after years of service, the Grumman LLV is finally being taken out of service. The LLV really helped revolutionize the USPS, helping it to function more reliably. Along the way, this mail truck became an American icon. So, although it is time to retire this vehicle, there is something sad about seeing it go. But, down the line, surely the Oshkosh NGDV will become just as iconic. 

The Next Generation Delivery Vehicle should be arriving at some point in 2023, and it has been quite the journey to get here. The USPS first announced it was looking for a new mail truck back in 2015. Finally, in 2021, the Postal Service announced that Oshkosh would be receiving the contract. 

Should you buy an old mail truck?

If, for some reason, you think you want to buy an old mail truck, it is possible. If you are lucky, you can find one listed at government auction. And as the LLV is retired, it is likely that more will pop up on the market. 

But it is important to keep in mind that the Grumman LLV is far from a comfortable vehicle. Still, it would certainly be cool to see an old mail truck at something like cars and coffee. Just be sure you don’t impersonate an employee of the United States Postal Service.