Military Vehicle Repair: GM Defense, gm defense, chevy trucks


Question
Hi Van
  I was wondering if you know anything about the GM defense department that supplies military vehicles. If so, what qualifications in a Chevy's (GM ) performance make it strong and reliable enough to be used by the government. Also what qualities does Chevy trucks have that lack in Ford trucks?
Thanks
PS i'm doing a marketing project for school and this relates to my topic


Answer
Hello Natalie,
That's an interesting question.
I don't really know the inner workings of the military contracting system, but I do work for the government, and the low bid is quite often the deciding factor of what is bought.
Now, then, I know the military will come up with certain specifications for a piece of equipment. They will say exactly what they want, how they want it, and how many they want, as well as what parts and support will be expected. Then they advertise those requirements, and the company that is willing to build an acceptable product, for a price that will be lower than the competitors, will get the contract. Often, contracts are renewed for more of the same.
Sometimes, some companies build prototypes of something the government is looking for, and try to sell them, and often do.
It may be that on some of the requirements, the other companies were just not interested in retooling to try to compete.
Often, several will, and the military will try them out, and choose the one that best meets their needs.
I will say, I have worked on the military trucks, and they are sure built tough.
Hope this helps you out.
Van