Electric Vehicles Transform Last-Mile Delivery for Small Businesses in FMCG Sector

What is it about?

The study explores the increasing role of electric vehicles (EVs) in last-mile delivery for fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) amid the rise of e-commerce, especially post-COVID-19. It examines small businesses' attitudes toward EV adoption using the theory of planned behavior and technology acceptance models. Findings indicate a positive correlation between compatibility, enjoyment, and perceived usefulness, and a strong link between attitude and intention to use EVs. This suggests a potential increase in EV usage in future last-mile delivery. The study fills a research gap, particularly in Türkiye, by highlighting factors influencing EV acceptance in FMCG. The context emphasizes small businesses' need to innovate and adapt to new technologies for competitive advantage.

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Photo by Nik on Unsplash

Photo by Nik on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This research is important because it explores the attitudes of small businesses towards using electric vehicles (EVs) in last-mile delivery for fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), a growing sector in e-commerce. Given the increased demand for efficient delivery solutions post-COVID-19, understanding these attitudes can help small enterprises adapt to technological advancements and remain competitive. The study also contributes to the literature by applying established theoretical models (TPB and TAM) to evaluate the acceptance of EVs, providing insights into the factors driving technology adoption in logistics, an area with significant cost and environmental implications. Key Takeaways: 1. Technological Adaptation: The study emphasizes the necessity for small businesses to adapt to new technologies like EVs to optimize last-mile delivery, highlighting compatibility and enjoyment as key factors influencing perceived usefulness. 2. Attitudinal Impact: A positive relationship was found between attitude toward use, perceived behavioral control, and perceived usefulness, indicating that positive attitudes and the ability to control technology use are crucial for its acceptance. 3. Future Utilization: The research suggests a strong relationship between intention and active usage, indicating that EVs could play a pivotal role in future logistics operations, especially in reducing costs and emissions associated with last-mile delivery.