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 – ? |