USPS Takes Green Route With Canoo Startup

In a push toward a greener future, the United States Postal Service (USPS) is set to increase the number of charging stations at its delivery centers. Plans reveal that more than 14,000 new charging points are projected across the nation, indicating a decisive shift toward electric vehicles (EVs). The USPS intends to integrate 9,250 Ford E-Transits into its fleet as an interim measure until the arrival of its Next Generation Delivery Vehicles, specifically crafted for electric power.

A thrilling aspect of this shift is the collaboration between the USPS and the EV startup, Canoo. USPS has announced the purchase of six LDV 190s, a model by Canoo, with deliveries expected in the first quarter of this year. This partnership positions Canoo as a potential supplier in the electrification efforts of USPS’s fleet.

Canoo is a California-based startup that has been making steady progress toward large-scale production. Just last November, the company rolled out its first production-standard Lifestyle Delivery Vehicles, which were delivered to the government in Oklahoma. The startup also began delivery of its smaller model, the LDV 130, to van rental provider Kingbee as part of a deal for the provider to purchase 9,300 units.

The LDV 190, Canoo’s commercial version of their pod-like Lifestyle Vehicle, was introduced back in 2019. This EV is powered by a single electric motor, generates 200 horsepower, and can accelerate to 60 mph in less than nine seconds. The LDV 190’s 79.0-kWh battery promises a range of over 200 miles and a fast-charge capacity that can power up the battery from 20% to 80% in a quick 32 minutes.

Size-wise, the LDV 190 marginally outdoes the largest versions of the Ford Transit Connect, stretching to 193.7 inches. The two-seater van weighs 4,740 pounds and can carry a load of up to 1,763 pounds. The cozy interior boasts a 10.2-inch touchscreen and a heated steering wheel and seats.

Despite the commercial vans being in production, Canoo’s passenger-carrying Lifestyle Vehicle seems to be in production limbo. The USPS’s venture into a greener delivery system and partnership with Canoo represents an exciting turning point in USPS’s commitment to environmental sustainability.