Assessing the Readiness of Integrating Electric Motor Vehicles in the Supply Chain in Zambia

This study assessed Zambia’s readiness to integrate Electric Motor Vehicles (EMVs) into its supply chain and logistics sector by examining infrastructure adequacy, stakeholder perceptions, operational capacity, and the policy environment. The global transition toward electric mobility has accelerated due to climate change concerns, energy security needs, and the demand for sustainable transport systems. However, evidence on EMV preparedness in Sub-Saharan Africa remains limited. In Zambia, where transport and logistics are vital to economic growth and regional trade, limited empirical research has examined readiness for EMV adoption. A mixed-methods research design was employed. Quantitative data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to 194 respondents comprising car dealers, transport operators, and logistics firms. The sample size was determined using the Yamane (1967) formula at a 95% confidence level and a 5% margin of error. Qualitative data were obtained through interviews with 20 key informants from ZESCO Limited, Road Transport and Safety Agency, the Ministry of Energy, and the Ministry of Transport and Logistics. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative responses were analyzed thematically. Findings indicated partial readiness for EMV integration. While 82.5% of respondents acknowledged lower long-term energy costs and 64.9% recognized reduced maintenance costs, over 70% perceived EMVs as significantly more expensive upfront. Limited financing options, unreliable electricity supply, inadequate charging infrastructure, and insufficient grid capacity were identified as major constraints. More than 85% of respondents reported shortages of trained EV technicians. Regulatory uncertainty and the absence of a comprehensive national electric mobility framework further limited preparedness. The study concluded that although Zambia demonstrates growing recognition of electric mobility’s strategic importance, large-scale integration remains constrained by financial, infrastructural, technical, and policy challenges. It recommends targeted fiscal incentives, investment in charging infrastructure and grid modernization, technical skills development, and stronger public–private partnerships to accelerate EMV adoption. This study contributes context-specific evidence to support sustainable transport policy and supply chain modernization in Zambia.