Automated Vehicle for Research 2023-UWMSN-00297-RFP

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is conducting a Request for Proposal (RFP) numbered 2023-UWMSN-00297-RFP for the procurement of an Automated Vehicle for Research platform located in Dane County, Wisconsin. The solicitation seeks a vehicle with SAE Level 3 autonomous capabilities, specifically requiring a platform that supports comprehensive research initiatives in autonomous driving technology. The vehicle must include a steering wheel and pedals to enable a safety operator to maintain manual control, and must be equipped with robust data transfer architecture including Robot Operating System (ROS) capabilities. Bidders are required to provide a vehicle that can support precise data collection, enable deployment of custom algorithms, and accommodate integration of additional hardware components. All proposals must be submitted electronically through the ShopUW+ platform at https://bids.sciquest.com/apps/Router/PublicEvent?CustomerOrg=UWisconsin by November 9, 2023, with technical inquiries directed to Mike Marean at mike.marean@wisc.edu. Technical requirements mandate that the vehicle demonstrate potential for further autonomous development and provide comprehensive research functionality beyond limited feature sets.

The RFP does not explicitly outline specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. The procurement appears open to qualified vendors capable of meeting the technical specifications for an autonomous research vehicle. The budget range for this procurement is established between $200,000 and $350,000, providing a clear financial framework for potential bidders. No incumbent vendors or existing technological infrastructure requirements are specifically mentioned in the available documentation. The solicitation emphasizes technical capabilities over vendor characteristics, focusing on the vehicle's research potential and autonomous functionality. Potential bidders should carefully review the technical requirements, particularly the need for a vehicle with SAE Level 3 capabilities that includes manual control mechanisms and supports comprehensive research development. Responses must demonstrate a clear understanding of the University of Wisconsin-Madison's research objectives for autonomous vehicle technology.