1 Year Contract for School buses - Type C

The State of Maine Division of Purchases is soliciting bids for a one-year contract to supply Type C school buses with passenger capacities of 66, 72, 77, and 78+ passengers, with bids due July 21, 2008. In the event of tie bids, the state will apply a preference to in-state bidders or those offering commodities produced or manufactured in Maine.

All buses must meet or exceed Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), Maine School Bus Standards (DOE rules Chapter 81), and Federal 2007 EPA Emission Standards, with preference for California emissions standards compliance for heavy-duty diesel engines. Engines must deliver a minimum of 190 HP for 72-passenger or smaller configurations and 205 HP for larger buses. Transmissions must be Allison PTS 2500 automatic or equivalent. The specification addresses chassis and body components, brake systems, suspension, lighting, safety equipment, seating configurations, and ADA-compliant wheelchair lift requirements. All buses manufactured after January 1, 2003 must use lead-free wheel weights and prohibit mercury-containing switches or components. Model years 2007, 2008, or 2009 are acceptable.

Bidders must submit separate unit prices for each item on prescribed forms or through electronic submission. The state will award based on the lowest responsible bidder considering best value, evaluating quality, conformity with specifications, delivery dates, and ultimate cost. The state reserves the right to increase or decrease quantities by up to 10%. All transportation charges, including freight and express delivery, are prepaid and at the contractor's expense unless otherwise specified. Bidders must quote prices exclusive of Federal and Maine State sales and use taxes. Cash discounts of 20 days or less will not be considered in award determination. Extensive options are available with separate line-item pricing for optional equipment such as alternative engine configurations, auxiliary heating systems, surveillance systems, and specialized seating arrangements. Bids must be submitted to the Division of Purchases, Room 119, 9 State House Station, State Office Building, Augusta, Maine.