Request for Solution (RFS) - Level 4 Automated Transit Buses

The State of Michigan, on behalf of the Automated Bus Consortium (ABC), is issuing a Request for Solution (RFS) for the procurement of approximately 70 Level 4 Automated Transit Buses, with options for up to an additional 70 buses, to be used in Ingham County and the City of Lansing. The RFS seeks innovative solutions that can meet the detailed technical specifications and operational requirements outlined in the provided documentation, including Appendix A (APTA Standard Bus Specification), Appendix H (ADS Testing Scenario Diagrams), Appendix G (ADS Testing Forms), and the Automated Bus Consortium Specification Version 3.0. Key requirements include the ability to navigate various roadway environments, intersections, bus stops, and passenger interactions autonomously, while ensuring safety and compliance with ADA standards. The RFS follows a Best Value selection process, with technical qualifications and delivery capabilities being more important than price. The proposal due date is June 27, 2024, with contracts anticipated to begin on September 19, 2024, and potential renewal options for up to three additional one-year periods.

The RFS indicates that the buses may be purchased with funds obtained through grants from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and various public/private funding sources. The contracts will be firm-fixed-price, and the State reserves the right to award multiple contracts. Contractors will be required to comply with federal requirements, such as Buy America and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) provisions. The RFS does not provide information on any set-aside designations, incumbent vendors, or budget ranges for the procurement.