Scope
Reference
27745
Description
As public Wi-Fi availability increases, passengers expect to remain connected to their work or social networks, regardless of their location. The opportunity to increase productivity while travelling is making public transport usage more attractive, and it has reached the point where Wi-Fi is now considered an essential offering for transport operators.
The solution proposal is to introduce on train Wi-Fi in a 60-day proof-of-concept trial.
Contract 1
Suppliers
Supplier not yet selected
Contract value
- £213,000 excluding VAT
- £255,600 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Earliest date the contract will be signed
12 May 2025
Contract dates (estimated)
- 12 May 2025 to 31 October 2025
- 5 months, 20 days
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 72222300 - Information technology services
Contract locations
- UK - United Kingdom
Other information
Conflicts assessment prepared/revised
Yes
Procedure
Procedure type
Direct award
Direct award justification
Single supplier - intellectual property or exclusive rights
This allows for a direct award to a supplier with exclusive rights, i.e., Intellectual Property Rights, which means that only that supplier can deliver the goods or services. Unique 5G Edge Active Antenna system is a pioneering solution in a 'blue ocean' market, with no direct competitors offering 5G edge antennas (routers located on the roof, rather than inside the train). This innovative approach enhances performance by up to 10 times on the uplink / 4x on the downlink compared with passive systems, while being less intrusive, more cost-effective, and simpler to implement. Most importantly, it delivers a 'Wi-Fi-at-home' experience for passengers on trains.
Applied 5G Edge Active Antenna solution eliminates the need for on-train routers, RF cables, RF splitters, and patch panels.
Additionally, Patented link aggregation software inside the antennas is unique in the industry.
Contracting authority
Plymouth City Council
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PBQP-8499-TLMP
Ballard House, West Hoe Road
Plymouth
PL1 3BJ
United Kingdom
Region: UKK41 - Plymouth
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government