Abstract

Background

Urban last-mile deliveries have become increasingly important due to rapid urbanization and the growing involvement in online trade. Yet, it is probably one of the least environmentally friendly elements of logistics because it is highly responsible for greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, and congestion in cities. Electric vehicles (EVs) have been recognized as a possible solution that can make urban logistics greener. However, their application is poorly researched, and there is little knowledge about their usage in last-mile deliveries.

Purpose

 In this context, this research intends to explore and investigate technological, organizational, and environmental factors affecting the use of electric vehicles in urban last-mile delivery logistics. Using the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) approach, it is intended to provide a comprehensive insight into the interaction among the above-mentioned determinants affecting the adoption decision of electric vehicles.

Methods  

The method adopted in this research work is qualitative research based on secondary data. The data used for this study were collected from the readily available information in different sources, such as sustainability reports, annual reports, corporate websites, and industry journals of five leading logistics firms, namely DHL, Amazon, UPS, FedEx, and Royal Mail.

Conclusion

The research finds that the adoption of electric vehicles in the area of urban last-mile delivery logistics represents a multifaceted process driven by the interactions between the level of technological development, organizational capacities, and the external environment. It becomes clear that in order for the process to be completed, it is important not only to have the proper technological foundation in place but also for companies to transform their business models accordingly. In light of ongoing sustainability challenges in the sphere of urban logistics, electric vehicles are expected to become an essential element of future success.