By Railroad Model Craftsman Staff

Since 1987, the Long Life Vehicle has been the primary mail delivery vehicle for the U.S. Postal Service. Over 140,000 of these LLVs were produced by the Allied Division of Grumman Corporation between 1987 and 1994. Used by both the USPS and Canada Post for curbside and residential mail deliveries, the vast majority of these vehicles remain in service today, some 36 years later, a true testament to their name. Average LLVs can last over 200,000 miles on its original engine and transmission before requiring overhaul.

Walthers has announced that it will be producing officially licensed HO scale replicas of the LLV for both USPS and Canada Post in five era-appropriate paint schemes. Each model includes a detailed riveted bodyshell, nonworking signal, head and tail lights, rolling wheels and tires on metal axles, and an interior with drivers seat, sorting table and rear bulkhead access door. Separate side and corner safety mirrors are included for the modeler to attach. Priced at $19.98 MSRP each, these HO scale LLVs are expected to arrive in Winter 2024.

Wm. K. Walthers, Inc., 5601 W. Florist Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53218; 800-487-2467; www.walthers.com

A rendering of the Canada Post LLV mail truck coming soon from Walthers. 

A sample model of the LLV truck from Walthers in USPS’ current paint scheme.