Creating Value Through Strategic Management: Sustainable Mobility for Family-Owned Small- and Medium-Sized Enterprises with Electric Vehicles in the Digital Era

Sónia Gouveia (), Daniel H. de la Iglesia, José Luís Abrantes, Alfonso J. López Rivero, Elisabete Silva, Eduardo Gouveia and Vasco Santos
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Sónia Gouveia: Superior School of Technology and Management, Polytechnic Institute of Viseu, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal
Daniel H. de la Iglesia: Faculty of Science, University of Salamanca, 37008 Salamanca, Spain
José Luís Abrantes: Superior School of Technology and Management, Polytechnic Institute of Viseu, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal
Alfonso J. López Rivero: Computer Science Faculty, Universidad Pontificia de Salamanca, 37002 Salamanca, Spain
Elisabete Silva: Superior School of Technology and Management, Polytechnic Institute of Viseu, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal
Eduardo Gouveia: Superior School of Technology and Management, Polytechnic Institute of Viseu, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal
Vasco Santos: Superior School of Technology and Management, Polytechnic Institute of Viseu, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 5, 1-29

Abstract: This paper aims to provide small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) owned by families with a simple, achievable technical methodology for the assessment of sustainable mobility alternatives, in particular, the purchase of electric vehicles (EVs) and photovoltaic (PV) systems. By adopting a comprehensive comparative analysis approach, this research aims to empower SMEs to make highly informed decisions concerning the choice of vehicles and energy systems that provide strategic and sustainable value. Based on a quantitative analysis linked to the total costs over ten years, and considering the different types of vehicles (electric, hybrid, and combustion) and the integration of PV systems, practical formulas are used to calculate the total cost of ownership (TCO), energy consumption, and CO 2 emissions. The results show that adopting electric vehicles, especially those complemented by photovoltaic systems with storage for night-time charging, can significantly reduce operating costs and carbon emissions, generating economic and environmental value. This study provides an accessible and applicable approach to the context of family SMEs, facilitating the analysis and choice of mobility options based on simple and commercially available data. By focusing on value creation through informed and strategic decisions, this work offers a relevant contribution to the competitiveness and sustainability of SMEs, promoting the adoption of sustainable mobility technologies in an integrated and effective manner.

Keywords: strategy; management; innovation; value creation; family; SMEs; EVs (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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