TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager to approve, on an as-needed basis, agreements for the short-term receipt of demonstration or evaluation test vehicles and equipment, especially new and innovative alternative fueled and advanced technology vehicles, whose value shall not exceed $95,000. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
The automotive and truck industry is rapidly developing new and innovative alternative fueled and advanced technology vehicles and equipment for use by the general public and fleet markets. As a Top Green Municipal Fleet, the City of Long Beach, Fleet Services Bureau (FSB) is continuously researching and looking to test these vehicles and equipment for future implementation into the City’s fleet. In order to take advantage of demonstration opportunities available and evaluate vehicles and equipment from manufacturers, we request the City Manager be authorized to approve the agreements necessary to obtain the test vehicles and equipment for short-term demonstrations. These test vehicles are typically in high demand and only available on a quick turnaround basis. The City may be required to insure the vehicles and equipment that we use. In the past, the market value of the demonstration equipment has ranged from $10,000 through $450,000. All demonstration requests for any vehicle and equipment exceeding a value of $95,000 shall be submitted to City Council for separate review and approval.
For several years, vehicle manufacturers such as Honda, Mitsubishi and Ford have offered prototype alternative fueled and advance technology vehicles to the FSB. The City would benefit in learning the capabilities and limitations of proposed vehicle and equipment models that are becoming available, and provide feedback to the manufacturer regarding how the test vehicles or equipment can better accommodate municipal operational needs.
This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Gary J. Anderson on August 30, 2011 and by Budget Management Officer...
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