R--Advanced Testing and Optimization

Solicitation Notice, NAICS Code 541330 Title: Advanced Engine Testing and Optimization. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) seeks proposals to provide it with a service contract for the on-site operation of Government-provided test cells (located in Ann Arbor, Michigan) to perform flexible engine power train testing and optimization related to small displacement engines with efforts focused on testing for emissions and improved efficiency (lower carbon dioxide emissions). This work is in support of the Office of Transportation and Air Quality's National Vehicle and Fuels Emission Laboratory (NVFEL) Advanced Technology Division in its continuing work to develop advanced clean and fuel efficient automotive technology to better protect the environment and to save energy. This Clean Automotive Technology (CAT) program includes researching and testing hybrid vehicle technologies to examine their fuel economy and reduced carbon dioxide emission potential. Work will primarily include testing of engines, but limited testing of power trains, subsystems, control systems, hydraulic pump motors and fuel systems may be necessary. It may be necessary to convert testing equipment to alternate-fuel emission operation if not capable. Alternate fuels to be addressed will include alcohol fuels and may also include natural gas, DME, petroleum gas, and reformulated gasoline. However, a large part of the work may include work with petroleum-based fuels. It is expected that the majority of testing will be performed on EPA supplied engines. The contractor shall provide qualified engineering personnel including backup personnel and tools to operate the EPA on-site test cells. The contractor shall also have experience and capability in calibrating and testing prototype automotive components, including components used in engines, subsystems, control systems, and fuel systems as well as experience in the fabrication of unique parts, calibration and optimization of advanced prototype engines, new concept screening that requires on-the-spot decisions on one-of-a-kind prototype engines and components. The contractor shall also be able to accommodate modifications and fabrications of Direct Injection Fuel Injection Systems and engine components such as cylinder heads. The Government anticipates the award of a Cost-Plus-Fixed-Fee Level of Effort (LOE) with a 12-month Base period and four (4) twelve month option periods. It is anticipated that each period will consist of a base level-of-effort of 6,000 hours with an option to increase the level of effort by an additional 18,000 hours each period. The solicitation is subject to Full and Open competition. The full Statement of Work will be included as an attachment to the solicitation. Award will be made to the offeror whose proposal provides the best value to the EPA, technical, price and other factors considered. The full technical evaluation criteria will be included in the solicitation. It is anticipated that the solicitation will be available on or about 27 January 2003 at http://www.epa.gov/oam/cinn_cmd/ It is estimated proposals will be required within 45 days of solicitation issuance. POC for this solicitation is Camille Warfield, Contract Specialist, at +1 (555) 000-0000, or via e-mail at contact@example.gov Telephone requests will not be honored. This is an unrestricted acquisition. All responsible sources may submit a proposal which will be considered by the Agency. FAR Part 12 procedures will not be used.