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Updates

ABC Agencies have advertised updated Request for Solutions

On March 28, 2024, the consortium advertised an updated request for solutions (RFS) first issued in January, 2022, to procure heavy-duty highly automated transit buses. Updates to the bus specifications and RFS are based on lessons learned and the latest automation industry advancements.

The highly automated buses will operate in pre-determined environments and still have drivers, steering wheels, and pedals. These vehicles will be deployed in revenue service on pilot routes selected by each participating agency, resulting in significant advancements in understanding the impacts of automation. Pilot routes for the vehicles include rural and urban deployments, bus rapid transit, bus yard and local bus service.

Please Contact Us for more information on the ABC program.

ABC Phase 1 Feasibility Studies

Pilot project feasibility studies were conducted for each ABC agency including assessment of candidate pilot routes and selection of a top pilot project.

Download summaries of ABC member pilot routes and operations plans to learn more.

ABC Phase 2A

ABC began Phase 2A of the program in September of 2020 primarily focusing on completion of the first highly automated bus specification, RFP and initial bus procurement vendor selection process lead by the State of Michigan. Other key activities included:

    • Defining testing requirements and deployment strategies
    • Developing Automated Driving System (ADS) testing scenarios
    • Agency site visits and confirmation of pilot projects
    • Preparing agency Operations and Maintenance plans
    • Identifying electrification charging needs
    • Identifying regulatory requirements
    • Preparing agency financial plans
    • On-going Committee Meetings
    • Decision to update the bus specifications & RFP based on lessons learned & industry advancements with goal to re-advertise in early 2024

ABC Phase 2 Schedule

Phase 2B of the program begins once member agencies finalize decisions on contracting for procurement of highly automated buses. Key activities will include bus manufacturing, testing, pilot route preparations and agency launch date planning. A preliminary schedule of upcoming activities include:

Conduct Industry Outreach, Modify Specs/RFP

07.01.23 – 12.31.23

Finalize Request for Solutions Package

01.01.24 – 03.27.24

Solicit for New Proposals/Proposals Review/Selections/Execute Contracts

03.28.24 – Fall 2024

Procure Buses

Fall 2024 – 12.30.25

Closed Course Testing/Pilot Route Testing

04.01.25 – 03.30.26

Commence Service on Pilot Routes

04.01.26

Evaluation (Allows for Staged Automation Capabilities)

04.01.26 – 03.30.29

On-Going O&M and Expanded Deployments

04.01.26 – ?

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