12 Volt Maintenance Free Batteries for DART's Bus Fleet

Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) is soliciting bids under solicitation number B-2098240 for the procurement of 12-volt maintenance-free batteries for its bus fleet. The requirement focuses on Group 31 and Group 31 AGM batteries that comply with SAE J537 and SAE J1495 standards. The contract structure consists of a one-year base term with a one-year option, not to exceed 24 months total. Base quantities include 1,200 Group 31 batteries and 100 Group 31 AGM batteries, with option year quantities of 100 and 1,000 respectively. Deliveries are F.O.B. destination to three specific bus operating facilities in Dallas, Texas, and all batteries must be no older than 30 days from the date of manufacture upon delivery. Bidders must submit offers electronically via the Bonfire Supplier Portal by July 17, 2026, at 2:00 PM local Dallas time. Required documentation includes representations and certifications, a business questionnaire, and an employee information report. Award evaluation includes a qualitative assessment of good faith efforts toward Small Business Concern participation. The successful contractor must maintain significant insurance coverages, including $2,000,000 in commercial auto liability and $4,000,000 in aggregate general liability. Additional compliance mandates include E-Verify verification for all employees, adherence to drug-free workplace programs, and certification against the boycott of Israel per Texas Government Code.