How to write Specifications for a Shuttle Bus?

1
How to write Specifications for a Shuttle Bus?

• Ask a bus dealer you trust to assist in the
  process. Carpenter Bus Sales is happy to assist
  you with the specifications and floor plans
• Ask peers who have experience.
• Understand bus quality standards and manufacturer
  reputations.
• Make the Specification both Effective and
  Concise.
• Keep it Simple. (3 pages maximum)
• Include a floor plan with the bid specifications.

2
Determine What is Needed?

• Discuss and define needs
• Uses
• Climate (This will determine the A/C heat
  requirements)
• Passengers (Ambulatory Wheelchair Stations)
• Drivers
• Operating Expenses
• Budget Considerations
• Vehicle Lifecycle

3
Vendor Requirements

• F.O.B. to my Location
• On Time Delivery or Penalties
• Disclose any and all deviations from
  specification. (Ask for bid exceptions on a
  separate page)
• Specific Capabilities (Full Service Shop, Parts
  Department, etc)
• How long have they been in business?
• Get references from similar operations.

4
What to Watch!

• Alternators
• Batteries
• Fast Idle
• Air Conditioning
• Heating
• Seat Fabric
• Flooring
• Interior Wall Covering
• Audio/Video
• Aisle width
• Suspension

• Lifts
• Cargo capability
• Engine Transmission
• Windows
• Mirrors
• Bumpers Hitches
• Seats (Low, Mid, or High Back)
• ADA 403 Compliant
• Wheel Chair Stations Tie-downs
• Foldaway seats _at_ Wheel Chair Stations

5
Define Delivery Time

• What is the anticipated time line for taking
  delivery?
• Who can deliver on my terms?
• Are their consequences for non-performance?
• How late in the manufacturing process can I make
  changes?

6
After the Purchase

• Is the vendor close enough to use for service
  work?
• If not, what resources are available?
• Does my vendor have a program in place to assist
  me with service a warranty work locally?
• Is a loaner or rental vehicle available at the
  vendors service center?

7
Get the Results You Want!

• Manage the vendor process to get quality, value
  and great pricing.
• Weed out the casual bidders.
• Build a reputation for being a serious
  knowledgeable customer.

8
Contact Carpenter Bus Sales, Inc.

• Henry Headden
• 1-800-370-6180
• 1-615-376-2287
• 1-615-370-1774 Fax
• henry_at_carpenterbus.com
• www.carpenterbus.com