Product Idea |

USPS Mail Truck

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Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds!

The USPS Mail Truck is truly an iconic vehicle! This model is based on the classic Grumman Long Life Vehicle (LLV) produced from 1987-1994 and the US Postal Service still has an estimated 100,000 of them on the road delivering mail across the great United States of America!

When it was commissioned, the USPS held a contract competition to design a vehicle chiefly concerned with "serviceability, handling in confined areas, and overall economical operation." While mainly recognized for its work in aircraft, Grumman won the bid and also produced a fleet for Canada Post.

Features to the build include some operational elements like a removable roof, sliding doors, and a back door that lifts up to show the package storage. Like the actual vehicle, the steering wheel is on the right-hand side and there is a small table next to the driver seat. I've also included packages, envelopes, and other pieces of mail in the truck. For additional visible interest, the truck is placed on a display road next to a street with a lamp post and three mail collection boxes. Decals and design follow those of the USPS.

This is my first shot at designing a vehicle for the IDEAS program. I decided to build it because I truly see it as an iconic vehicle with a place in automobile and US History. At 330 pieces, it should be relatively affordable and yet offer the great building experience.

I think the USPS Mail Truck would make a great set because it is very interactive and fun to play with as well as to display. Whenever you see one of these trucks on the road, I hope you remember this set!

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