CCS RM6244: Your Guide to Public Sector Vehicle Procurement

Understanding the Crown Commercial Service RM6244 Framework

The Crown Commercial Service (CCS) plays a pivotal role in streamlining procurement for the UK public sector. One of its key offerings is the Purchase of Standard and Specialist Vehicles framework, specifically agreement RM6244. This comprehensive framework, operational from 29 November 2022 to 28 November 2026, acts as a vital conduit for central government and a wide array of other public sector organisations to acquire a diverse range of vehicles. With 10 distinct lots and the participation of 77 suppliers, RM6244 is designed to meet the varied and often complex vehicle needs of the public sector, from everyday passenger cars to highly specialised emergency response units.

The Extensive Scope of RM6244

The beauty of the RM6244 framework lies in its unparalleled breadth. It grants access to vehicles powered by all fuel types, embracing the transition towards sustainability with electric, hybrid, and hydrogen options readily available. The framework encompasses a complete spectrum of vehicle sizes and types. Whether your organisation requires compact cars, versatile vans, robust 4x4s, or heavy-duty commercial vehicles, RM6244 has you covered. This includes essential services like refuse collection and waste management vehicles, as well as passenger transport solutions such as minibuses, buses, and coaches.

Beyond standard road vehicles, the framework extends to more specialised requirements. Mobile trailers and mobile units, crucial for health screenings, events, and other operational needs, are included. Furthermore, RM6244 is the go-to agreement for blue light emergency vehicles. This covers a comprehensive array of emergency response vehicles, including operational cars, police carrier units, dog vans, command and control units, and even lightweight fire-fighting vehicles. The framework also caters to the need for specialist bespoke vehicles, offering not just the vehicles themselves but also associated conversion services. These services can include everything from initial specification design and body building to rigorous testing and ongoing maintenance, providing a holistic solution for unique operational demands.

Deconstructing the 10 Lots

To ensure efficient and targeted procurement, RM6244 is intelligently structured into 10 distinct lots, each catering to specific vehicle categories:

How to Purchase Through RM6244

Procuring vehicles through RM6244 is a straightforward process, offering two primary routes: direct award and further competition. The method chosen often depends on the complexity of your needs and the volume of vehicles required.

Direct Award: Simplicity and Speed

For Lots 1 and 2 (Passenger Cars and Light/Medium Commercial Vehicles), the process is particularly streamlined. Buyers can leverage the Fleet Portal, an online tool that provides detailed technical specifications and indicative pricing for a wide range of vehicles. This allows for easy comparison, enabling organisations to identify the most suitable vehicle for their needs. Once a selection is made, buyers can directly contact the chosen supplier to confirm pricing, volume, and the ordering process. Finalising the purchase is then a matter of using the order forms provided by CCS. For the remaining lots, the direct award process involves contacting relevant suppliers for pricing and technical information, comparing these responses, selecting the best value option, and then confirming details with the chosen supplier before placing the order.

Further Competition: Tailored Solutions

When dealing with more complex requirements or anticipating a significant volume of vehicles, running a further competition is the recommended approach. This process allows organisations to invite all identified suppliers within the relevant lot to submit tenders based on their specific requirements. Buyers will need to prepare comprehensive further competition documents, including an invitation to tender, a clear timetable, and a detailed specification or statement of requirements. Establishing clear evaluation criteria is crucial. Once tenders are submitted within the set deadline, supplier responses are evaluated, and the contract is awarded to the supplier offering the best overall value. It is good practice to inform unsuccessful suppliers of the outcome.

Key Benefits of Using RM6244

The RM6244 framework offers a compelling suite of advantages for public sector organisations:

• Fleet Portal Access: The online quotation system provides invaluable technical and pricing information for cars and vans, complete with cost breakdowns, facilitating efficient vehicle comparison.
• Market Rate Comparator: CCS discounts are, on average, approximately 8.1% better than those typically achieved in the leasing market, offering significant cost savings.
• Simplified Procurement: The direct award option, utilising simple order forms, significantly streamlines the purchasing process.
• Specialised Lots: Dedicated lots for standard and specialist vehicles, as well as blue light services, ensure that specific needs are met efficiently.
• SME Support: The option to use local dealerships for delivery and after-sales service provides valuable support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
• Carbon Reduction & Social Value: The framework strongly emphasizes environmental responsibility, providing access to zero and low-emission vehicles. All suppliers are committed to developing carbon reduction plans and working towards net-zero by 2050, and have signed up to the National Highways’ Driving for Better Business scheme.

RM6244 vs. Previous Frameworks (RM6060 & RM3814)

It's important to note that RM6244 supersedes previous agreements such as the Vehicle Purchase framework agreement (RM6060) and the Vehicle Conversions dynamic purchasing system (RM3814). This consolidation aims to provide a more unified and efficient procurement solution. The scope remains comprehensive, covering the supply and delivery of vehicles across the UK and overseas, and appointing suppliers responsible for the entire supply chain, from development and manufacture to after-sales support, or for vehicle conversion as a standalone service.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of vehicles can be purchased through RM6244?

RM6244 covers a vast array of vehicles, including passenger cars (saloon, hatchback, 4x4s, SUVs), light and medium commercial vehicles (vans, pickups up to 7.5T), heavy commercial vehicles, refuse collection vehicles, minibuses, buses, coaches, trailers, mobile units, and all types of blue light emergency vehicles.

Can I purchase electric vehicles through this framework?

Yes, absolutely. RM6244 explicitly includes access to vehicles of all fuel types, with a strong emphasis on electric, hybrid, and hydrogen options to support carbon reduction goals.

What is the duration of the RM6244 framework?

The agreement is valid from 29 November 2022 to 28 November 2026.

How does direct award work for Lot 1 and Lot 2?

For these lots, you can use the online Fleet Portal to compare specifications and indicative pricing, select your vehicle, contact the supplier to confirm details, and then place an order using CCS order forms.

What are the benefits of using RM6244 for my organisation?

Key benefits include cost savings through better-than-market discounts, a simplified procurement process via the Fleet Portal and direct award, access to a wide range of specialist vehicles, support for SMEs, and a commitment to environmental sustainability and social value.

Is it possible to get specialist or bespoke vehicle conversions?

Yes, Lot 10 is specifically dedicated to the conversion of bespoke and specialist vehicles, covering everything from design and build to specific emergency service conversions.

In conclusion, the CCS RM6244 framework represents a significant advancement in how the UK public sector procures vehicles. Its comprehensive scope, structured approach, and numerous benefits make it an indispensable tool for acquiring everything from essential fleet vehicles to highly specialised operational units efficiently and cost-effectively, while also promoting crucial environmental objectives.

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