Government procurement case and bid-winning solution interpretation for Ford Transit V362 service vehicles in Urumqi, Xinjiang — In Urumqi, winter temperatures frequently drop below -20°C, imposing stringent performance requirements on special-purpose vehicles. Since 2023, a municipal sanitation department has procured Ford Transit V362 service vehicles in bulk for two consecutive years, with a total delivery of 12 units and a cumulative contract value of approximately RMB 3 million (based on publicly available tender information). These vehicles are primarily deployed for urban road inspections, emergency repairs, and material transportation. Customer feedback highlights 'reliable cold-weather starting capability and stable hydraulic system performance', establishing this project as a benchmark case for similar procurements in the region. This article analyzes the core reasons behind the sustained collaboration from real-world operational scenarios and provides practical FAQs for reference. Case Background: From Single-Unit Trial to Bulk Repeat Procurement Initially, in autumn 2023, the agency procured two Ford Transit V362 service vehicles for winter trial operation. The vehicles were equipped with Chengli Special Purpose Automobile’s customized upfit systems, including a hydraulic lifting platform and an insulated cargo compartment. After one winter of testing, all vehicles started successfully even at -25°C, and no hydraulic system jamming occurred. Consequently, in 2024, the agency issued another tender for ten additional units; Chengli Special Purpose Automobile won the bid with a competitive quotation and localized after-sales service, at an average unit price of approximately RMB 288,000 (in line with local procurement practices), plus a complimentary full winter maintenance package. Key evaluation criteria considered by the procuring entity included: • Cold-start capability: Requirement for successful ignition at -30°C. • Hydraulic system stability: Hydraulic oil must remain fluid at low temperatures and ensure smooth operation. • Winter maintenance program: Including antifreeze coolant, pre-heating devices, and scheduled inspection services. Core Reasons for Sustained Collaboration 1. Cold-Weather Starting Performance: Reliable One-Touch Ignition Even at -30°C Urumqi experiences extremely low nighttime temperatures during winter, often causing conventional vehicles to suffer from battery discharge or diesel fuel waxing. The Ford Transit V362 service vehicles supplied by Chengli (chassis model reference: CLW5040XXHS6) feature the following standard configurations: • Low-Temperature Preheating System: Integrated engine block heater and diesel fuel line heater to ensure uninterrupted fuel flow. • High-Capacity Battery: Equipped with low-temperature AGM batteries, offering 20% higher capacity. • Specialized Antifreeze Coolant: Utilizes -45°C-rated antifreeze, suitable for extreme weather conditions. According to customer feedback, during a heavy snowstorm in January 2024, all vehicles parked outdoors overnight started successfully the next morning on the first attempt, with zero failures reported. 2. Low-Temperature Hydraulic Stability: Non-Gelling Hydraulic Oil Ensures Smooth Operation The service vehicles’ hydraulic lifting platform is used to load small equipment or materials. At low temperatures, conventional hydraulic oil increases in viscosity, resulting in sluggish actuation. Chengli implemented the following solutions: • Low-Temperature Hydraulic Oil: Synthetic HV-grade hydraulic oil with a pour point as low as -40°C. • Heated Hydraulic Circuit Design: Electric heating element integrated into the hydraulic reservoir, automatically preheating for five minutes prior to startup. • Upgraded Sealing Components: Low-temperature-resistant rubber seals to prevent contraction-induced leakage. In actual operation, the hydraulic system responds within less than two seconds at -20°C — identical to its performance under a