|
|
| Q. Does FTA require any Altoona testing of automobiles, and is there any prohibition against this type of purchase with Federal funds??
A. Altoona testing does not apply to automobiles. There is no prohibition of using Federal funds to purchase autos as long as it is consistent with your grant terms. You can check with your grant manager to be sure. Remember that the Buy America requirements (certification, contract clause, etc.) will apply if the procurement exceeds $100,000.
|
Q. Is it possible for bus manufacturers to perform the "Altoona" testing at proving grounds of their choice if the requirements can be met? The Bosch Automotive Proving Grounds in New Carlisle, IN, has the capabilities required to meet the Altoona Bus testing requirements. What would we need to do to become an alternate source for this testing?
A. FTA thanks you for your interest in offering an alternative site for bus testing. However, the Program is constrained by statute from conducting testing of new transit bus models at another facility. Federal Acquisition Regulation 49 U.S.C. Sec. 5318(a) states, "The Secretary of Transportation shall establish one facility for testing a new bus model for maintainability, reliability, safety, performance (including braking performance), structural integrity, fuel economy, emissions, and noise."
|
|
