Corporate Average Fuel Economy Management Suite (CAFE) Database

Quick Summary

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is issuing a Sources Sought Notice to identify qualified small businesses for the Corporate Average Fuel Economy Management Suite (CAFE) Database modernization. This effort seeks a cloud-native (AWS) application and secure web-based interface to streamline fuel economy data management. Responses are due March 17, 2026.

Purpose & Objectives

NHTSA aims to modernize its CAFE DB, which supports fuel efficiency programs governed by 49 USC 329. The objective is to provide a modernized, cloud-native (AWS) application and a secure web-based interface that streamlines the lifecycle of fuel economy data management, eliminating manual, error-prone processes. Key objectives include:

• Modernize Data Ingestion: Transition from manual processes to a secure, web-based external ingestion portal for OEM data submission.
• Automate Regulatory Workflows: Eliminate manual interventions for reporting and credit management.
• Ensure Data Integrity: Strictly segregate and protect Confidential Business Information (CBI).
• Enhance Transparency: Expand Business Intelligence (BI) reporting and automated data extractions for the Public Information Center (PIC) portal.
• Intelligence Integration: Leverage AI/ML to identify data anomalies and improve regulatory recommendations.
• Maintain High Availability: Ensure 99.9% uptime through robust Operations & Maintenance (O&M).
• Agile Engagement: Support Agile methods with continuous integration/continuous delivery (CI/CD).
• Continuous Security Oversight: Perform Annual Security Assessments and maintain Authorization to Operate (ATO).

Scope of Work & Deliverables

The contractor will be responsible for the design, development, and implementation of the CAFE DB platform. Key deliverables include:

• Provision of experienced, technically-skilled staff.
• Implementation of Agile methodology and a Product Roadmap.
• Development and implementation of a CI/CD pipeline.
• Implementation of LDV & MD/HD compliance tracking and reporting.
• Design and implementation of the External Ingestion Portal.
• Automation of credit tracking processes.
• Meeting cybersecurity and privacy requirements for ATO.
• Providing a modernized and intuitive user interface.
• Ensuring scalable, resilient, and flexible solutions.

Contract & Timeline

• Type: Sources Sought (Market Research)
• NAICS Code: 541511 - Custom Computer Programming Services
• Response Due: March 17, 2026
• Published: March 5, 2026
• Place of Performance: Primarily off-site, with potential on-site meetings at NHTSA HQ in Washington, DC.

Set-Aside & Submission Requirements

This Sources Sought targets Small Business (SB), Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB), 8(a) Certified SDB, HUBZone SB, SDVOSB, or WOSB concerns. Interested firms must submit a Corporate Capability Statement (max 10 pages) demonstrating their ability and past experience. Submissions should include:

• General Information: Company name, address, POC, DUNS, CAGE, business size/classification (based on NAICS 541511), potential teaming arrangements, and GSA FSS number (if applicable).
• Technical Capability: Synopsis of ability to perform objectives, evidence of experience/past performance (contracts from past 3 years with details), and personnel skillsets.
• Additional Information: Intent to propose if an RFP is issued, validation/recommendation of NAICS/contract type/GSA vehicle, and potential Small Business subcontracting opportunities.

Important Note

This is a Sources Sought notice for market research; NHTSA does not intend to award a contract based on responses or pay for preparation. It may lead to a Request for Proposals (RFP) later.