How to bid on CATS IV Streetcar Truck Overhauls for the City of Charlotte

What the City of Charlotte is buying

The City of Charlotte is seeking a contractor to perform overhauls on Siemens streetcar trucks. This includes work on hydraulic and braking systems to meet original equipment manufacturer (OEM) standards. The city will handle the removal and shipping of the equipment to the selected contractor.

This project is crucial for maintaining the streetcars, ensuring they reach their end of useful life, and continuing to provide reliable, safe, and on-time service to the public. The overhauls address recommended maintenance intervals for various components, including trucks, low floor axle and wheelsets, and journal bearing equipment.

Key dates and deadlines

The solicitation was published on August 18, 2026. A mandatory pre-bid meeting and site visit is scheduled for August 27, 2026. All proposals must be submitted electronically through the Bonfire Procurement Portal by September 24, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for firms specializing in the overhaul and maintenance of heavy vehicle components, particularly those with experience in rail or streetcar systems and hydraulic/braking systems. Vendors must be capable of meeting original equipment manufacturer specifications for Siemens streetcar trucks. This falls under the facilities category, specifically for specialized transportation equipment maintenance.

How to respond

To respond, first view the solicitation on the North Carolina electronic Vendor Portal (eVP) by clicking the "View original source" link. The posting and its documents are publicly accessible without an account.

Proposals must be submitted electronically through the Bonfire Procurement Portal. You will need to search for project number 269-2027-2117. Responding to this opportunity requires free vendor registration on the Bonfire Procurement Portal.

Tips for a competitive response

Attend the mandatory pre-bid meeting and site visit on August 27, 2026. This is your chance to understand the project scope directly from the agency and ask questions.

Ensure your proposal clearly demonstrates your firm's capability to meet or exceed original equipment manufacturer standards for Siemens streetcar trucks. Highlight any specific experience with similar equipment or projects. Pay close attention to all submission requirements on the Bonfire Procurement Portal and submit your proposal well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute technical issues.