Brand Name Justification - 5 CS Utility Vehicle - 3 Mar 25 CO Signed.pdf

Single Source Justification (Simplified Acquisition)

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

November 2018 FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY Page 1 of 2

Section A: General Contract Information

Is this a Bridge Action as defined in the AF Bridge Action Reduction Plan? Yes No

Contracting Activity: 5th Contracting Squadron, Minot AFB, ND

Project/Program Name: Low Speed Utility Vehicle - 5 CS

Purchase Request / Local ID Number: UFR - N/A yet

Estimated Contract Cost (including Options): $0.00

Section B: Description of the Supplies/Services Required

5 CS requires the purchase of a Light Service Vehicle (LSV) specifically designed for year-round operation, including snow removal during harsh North Dakota winters. The LSV must feature a fully enclosed, weatherproof cab with a high-quality HVAC system capable of maintaining a comfortable interior temperature and effectively defrosting the windshield in sub-freezing conditions. The vehicle must also accommodate at least two passengers comfortably.

Section C: Justification for Soliciting from a Single Source or Brand Name

While the market offers various LSVs, our research and experience demonstrate that only two brands consistently meet the stringent quality and performance requirements for safe and effective operation in our specific environment. These brands are:

Can-Am: Known for robust cab construction, reliable HVAC systems, and proven performance in challenging weather conditions.

Polaris: Similar to Can-Am, Polaris offers LSVs with durable cabs, efficient HVAC systems, and a reputation for reliability in demanding environments.

Section D: Efforts to Obtain Competition

We have explored alternative brands, including [List alternative brands considered: Kubota, Kawasaki, Yamaha, Honda], that appeared to meet our specifications on paper. However, upon closer inspection and through firsthand experience, we found these brands to have inadequate build quality, particularly regarding cab construction and HVAC system performance.

Specifically, we observed the following deficiencies:

Poor Cab Sealing: Resulting in water leaks and inadequate protection from wind and cold.

Ineffective HVAC Systems: Insufficient heating capacity, poorly designed vents, and inadequate defrosting capabilities, leading to unsafe driving conditions in winter.

Lack of Durability: Components prone to premature wear and tear, leading to increased maintenance costs and downtime.

These shortcomings make these alternative brands unsuitable for our needs and underscore the necessity for sourcing from manufacturers with a proven track record of quality and durability.

Section E: Steps to Preclude Future Single Source or Brand Name Awards

We are committed to exploring all available options to foster competition in future procurements. To that end, we will:

Continuously monitor the market: We will actively research and assess emerging LSV manufacturers and models that may meet our evolving needs and quality standards.

Engage with vendors: We will proactively communicate our specific requirements and performance expectations to a wider range of LSV suppliers, encouraging them to develop products that meet our needs.

FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

November 2018 FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY Page 2 of 2

Section F: Contracting Officer's Determination

I have determined, in accordance with FAR 13.106-1(b)(1), that the circumstances of this contract action deem only a single source is reasonably available.

Date

21-Mar-2025

Typed Name and Rank/Grade of Contracting Officer

JALEN T. DILLARD, SrA/E-4, Contracting Officer

Signature of Contracting Officer

November 2018 Page of Section A: General Contract Information Is this a Bridge Action as defined in the AF Bridge Action Reduction Plan?

Section B: Description of the Supplies/Services Required Section C: Justification for Soliciting from a Single Source or Brand Name Section D: Efforts to Obtain Competition Section E: Steps to Preclude Future Single Source or Brand Name Awards Section F: Contracting Officer's Determination I have determined, in accordance with FAR 13.106-1(b)(1), that the circumstances of this contract action deem only a single source is reasonably available.

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