Specifications include, but are not limited to: The purpose of this RFI is for VTA to conduct market research on current LRV technologies, learn about rail industrial development trends, and explore the feasibility of obtaining the prototype LRV for demo run with limited passenger service by December 2025. This prototype will incorporate new and emerging technologies, be compatible with VTA's existing infrastructure, and meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), and any other requirements for accessibility, security, and safety. This prototype will serve as a tangible demonstration to both passengers and city officials of what the city's future transit solutions could look like. It will highlight new and emerging technologies, such as Onboard Energy Storage Systems (OESS) and increased passenger capacity. This RFI aims to collect detailed information to guide VTA in generating a focused and competitive Request for Proposal (RFP) specifically for the procurement of this prototype vehicle. While insights gained could be valuable, there is no immediate intention for this RFI to influence technical specifications or establish the final design for any future generation of LRV fleet. As part of this RFI process, VTA plans to hold one-on-one meetings with Organizations who respond to the RFI, aiming to discuss their offerings and possibilities in greater detail. These workshops will facilitate a deeper understanding of market capabilities and will help to further refine VTA's prototype LRV procurement strategies. While the data collected from this RFI and resulting meetings will assist VTA’s planning and development of technical scopes for the prototype vehicle, no contract will be awarded based on this RFI and the resulting one-on-one meetings. VTA reserves the right to hold discussions with Organizations who provide feedback to this RFI. Any discussions or communications resulting from this RFI, whether verbal or written, will not be considered binding.
