rural mail carriers?

I am seriously considering a Prius V for mail delivery, a 2012 or perhaps a 2013 now. My route is 46 miles with quite a bit of gravel roads but I'm a little worried about the low clearance on a Prius. Also, can anyone with a Prius V tell me if it looks like the plastic piece that runs from the center console to the dash can be removed? Is it a separate piece from the center console? I would like to keep the center console in place (if possible) but the plastic piece that extends forward would have to go in order to reach the pedals with my leg from the passenger side. Any input appreciated.

 

I can say that I touch down in the front and back much less in the v than I did in the Gen 2. So sharp dips are less a worry.

 

Jimbo, thanks very much for your input.

 

I also was considering the v as a mail vehicle (54 mile route) since I delivered mail from my gen 2 from the passenger side with the console removed. I figured that the EMA would pay the vehicle payments AND the gas! Unfortunately, shortly after test driving the v in October of 2011, I found out that I was getting an LLV.

I did inquire (at the dealership) as to the removal / modification of the center console and was told (at that time) that it could not be done. I am not sure if anyone has tried removing the front portion of the console and moving the main unit back a few inches.

The LLV is great until there is snow on the ground: no traction, one-wheel drive, poor heat, and slides all over the road! The USPS has suspended the use of studded tires!