Scope
Description
TfL intends to directly award a contract for the delivery of a two-phase trial of a novel PTI safety detection system on the Piccadilly Line. The solution integrates ultrasonic sensors and video analytics to detect falls and obstructions at the platform edge. This approach has not previously been trialled in the London Underground operational context.
The contract will cover both:
• Phase 1 (Shadow Trial): A non-live environment test to validate the technology and integration approach.
• Phase 2 (Operational Trial): A live deployment, subject to successful completion of Phase 1 and TfL's approval to proceed.
The contract will be structured as a fixed-price, milestone-based agreement with a break clause following Phase 1.
Contract 1. Platform Train Interface (PTI) Safety Detection System
Supplier
Contract value
- £360,000 excluding VAT
- £432,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Earliest date the contract will be signed
10 October 2025
Contract dates (estimated)
- 17 October 2025 to 16 October 2026
- 1 year
Main procurement category
Goods
CPV classifications
- 35120000 - Surveillance and security systems and devices
- 38430000 - Detection and analysis apparatus
Contract locations
- UK - United Kingdom
Other information
Conflicts assessment prepared/revised
Yes
Procedure
Procedure type
Direct award
Direct award justification
Prototypes and development
Justification for Direct Award:
This contract is being awarded under Schedule 5, Paragraph 2 of the Procurement Act 2023 - the prototype exemption.
The proposed solution is technically novel, featuring a dual-input detection architecture that combines ultrasonic sensors and video analytics. It is being trialled in a unique operational environment (curved platforms, mixed rolling stock, high passenger volumes) not previously addressed by existing PTI technologies. The purpose of the trial is to evaluate the solution's effectiveness and suitability in this context, with findings to inform future safety and procurement strategies.
Market Engagement Summary:
TfL conducted a Market Sounding Questionnaire (MSQ) in September 2024. Robert Bosch Limited was identified as the only supplier capable of delivering an integrated, end-to-end solution within the required timeframe and cost. Other suppliers offered partial solutions or lacked integration capability. Splitting the requirement across multiple suppliers was considered but rejected due to integration, performance, and risk concerns.
Commercial Terms:
The contract will be subject to commercial negotiation. Final pricing and terms for both phases will be agreed prior to contract signature. Phase 2 delivery is conditional on successful completion of Phase 1 and TfL's decision to proceed.
Supplier
ROBERT BOSCH LIMITED
- Companies House: SC013418
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PPNL-5881-HWRN
C/O Bosch Rexroth
Glenrothes
KY6 2RD
United Kingdom
Region: UKM72 - Clackmannanshire and Fife
Small or medium-sized enterprise (SME): No
Voluntary, community or social enterprise (VCSE): No
Contract 1. Platform Train Interface (PTI) Safety Detection System
Contracting authority
Transport for London
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PHMT-6197-NWNZ
5 Endeavour Square
London
E20 1JN
United Kingdom
Region: UKI41 - Hackney and Newham
Organisation type: Public authority - central government