Cutaway Vehicle Amended Procurement

The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) is seeking vendors to manufacture and deliver multiple cutaway vehicles through a Request for Proposal (RFP) targeting rural and specialized transportation providers. The procurement encompasses 20 vehicles across various configurations, including 12 to 24 passenger models with front and rear lift options utilizing E450 and F550 chassis. Specifically, the solicitation includes nine different vehicle configurations ranging from 12+2 to 30 passenger vehicles with lift capabilities. Vendors must demonstrate expertise in vehicle manufacturing, compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, and adherence to Buy America requirements. The RFP allows proposals for one, several, or all vehicle types, with potential to award multiple contracts to different vendors. Key submission details include a proposal due date of April 30, 2025, at 2:00 PM Central Time, with an anticipated contract award on May 13, 2025. Vendors must submit inquiries via email to brenda.sharkey@state.sd.us and are prohibited from additional contact during the solicitation process.

The procurement does not explicitly outline specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged businesses, though federal transit funding typically encourages minority and small business participation. The contract provides flexibility for purchasing up to 92 additional vehicles over five years, with pricing subject to potential adjustments after 180 days using the Producer Price Index for Truck and Bus Bodies. Successful vendors must provide comprehensive documentation including bus testing certifications, 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranties, and allow for on-site manufacturer inspections. While specific budget ranges are not detailed, the procurement suggests significant potential contract value given the multiple vehicle configurations and expansion options. The end recipients will primarily be rural public transportation and specialized transportation providers in South Dakota, with potential extension to other approved states. Vendors must demonstrate robust manufacturing capabilities, provide detailed vehicle specifications, and comply with extensive technical and regulatory requirements to be considered for award.