WASHINGTON- The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) has selected AC Propulsion and AutoPort Electric Vehicle to develop a conversion prototype and report as one of five solutions in a feasibility study for the possible conversion of its 142,000 Long Life Vehicles (LLVs) to plug-in Battery Electric Vehicles.

With the AC Propulsion and AutoPort solution, the current USPS LLV design will be stripped of the gasoline engine, transmission, and other components and refitted with the AC Propulsion AC-150 drive system, an integrated power system that includes an AC induction motor, inverter, charger, and 12V power supply. AutoPort will convert the vehicle on-site at its facilities in New Castle, Del. The converted vehicle will comply with Guidelines for Electric Vehicle Safety SAE J2344, and all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

AC Propulsion and AutoPort's solution will be tested against USPS requirements at AutoPort's facilities, and then will be placed into service in the DC metro area for at least one year, where they will be monitored for carrier satisfaction, cost of operation, and maintenance, according to the companies.