#2 - Driving Sustainability Forward: Innovations in Green Logistics

The adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) for last-mile delivery in Asia is rapidly gaining momentum, presenting a compelling alternative to traditional diesel-powered trucks. With increasing pressure to meet sustainability goals and cut operational costs, electric vehicles are proving to be a viable solution to the challenges of carbon emissions and fuel expenses. In this episode, I had the chance to speak with Dennis Ng , CEO and Founder of Mober Technology Pte., Inc. . We delved into his journey of securing seed funding from investors, the valuable lessons he’s learned from setbacks, and how he has maintained his motivation to successfully scale his business to new heights.

The inspiration behind launching an exciting new venture

Mober Technology Pte., Inc. started as an on-demand delivery platform with the goal of reducing carbon emissions by optimizing underutilized delivery vehicles. A key moment in their journey came in 2021 when IKEA Philippines chose Mober Technology Pte., Inc. as one of their transport service providers (TSP). This partnership enabled the company to introduce the Philippines' first electric vehicle (EV) for logistics, marking a turning point that solidified their commitment to a green logistics model.

Today, Mober’s mission is to revolutionise the Philippines logistics sector by offering sustainable and cost-effective delivery services through a diverse fleet of electric vehicles. Mober Technology Pte., Inc. 's vision is to become the leading green logistics provider in the Philippines, advancing sustainability throughout the industry. By leveraging EVs, the company not only enhance delivery efficiency but also significantly cut carbon emissions, helping businesses achieve their sustainability goals swiftly and effectively.

Mober’s Unique Selling Proposition that sets them apart from the competition

The market opportunity is substantial, particularly as sustainability gains increasing importance among companies. With the logistics industry being vast and the demand for eco-friendly solutions surging, Mober Technology Pte., Inc. is well-positioned to capture a significant share of this emerging market. Mober Technology Pte., Inc. main competitors are traditional logistics companies that rely on internal combustion engine vehicles. They set ourselves apart by being the first in the Philippines to offer a 100% electric vehicle logistics solution, with a distinct advantage that lies in the company commitment to sustainability, innovative approach, and focus on empowering their employees.

Mober Technology Pte., Inc. targets large retailers, FMCG companies, and freight forwarders who are dedicated to sustainability and seeking eco-friendly logistics solutions. They collaborate with businesses aiming to reduce their carbon footprint, distinguishing themselves by exclusively using electric vehicles for all deliveries. This dedication to green logistics differentiates Mober from traditional companies that depend on internal combustion engines. Additionally, Mober prioritises empowering the team to ensure they are motivated and committed to delivering exceptional service.

Challenges associated with this venture

Dennis Ng spoke about the investment in their own charging infrastructure by strategically placing chargers at key distribution centers, warehouses, and other high-traffic areas. The team also collaborate with facilities such as malls and industrial parks to ensure their fleet has easy access to charging stations, facilitating smooth operations.

However, Mober Technology Pte., Inc. face several significant challenges. One major issue is the lack of bank financing options for commercial EVs, which complicates scaling its fleet. The financial sector is not fully equipped to support EVs with adequate financing, so Dennis Ng needs to explore alternative funding methods for acquiring new vehicles. Additionally, building and maintaining the necessary infrastructure to support a fully electric fleet, coupled with the high upfront costs of electric vehicles, poses a considerable challenge. Educating the market about the benefits of green logistics and encouraging businesses to transition remains an ongoing hurdle. The primary risks include the fast pace of technological advancements in electric vehicles, which could potentially render their current fleet less relevant. Regulatory changes that may impact Mober operations also present a concern. Furthermore, scaling their operations rapidly while ensuring consistent quality and efficiency remains a significant challenge.

“Our customers come first. As a leading green logistics provider in the Philippines, we know what works — and our clients agree." ~ Dennis Ng , CEO/Founder of Mober Technology Pte., Inc.

Future plans and Dennis Ng 's vision for market potential

The future of electric trucks in logistics looks very promising. With advancements in battery technology and the expansion of charging infrastructure, Dennis Ng anticipates a significant shift towards electric vehicles in the logistics sector. Regulatory changes and growing environmental awareness are expected to accelerate this transition, positioning electric trucks as the industry standard.

Mober Technology Pte., Inc. plans include scaling by expanding their fleet of electric vehicles, improving charging infrastructure, and exploring new markets both within and beyond the Philippines. The company aims to continue innovating their service offerings and strengthening partnerships with businesses dedicated to sustainability. To support this growth, Dennis Ng will pursue strategic fundraising to invest in fleet expansion, technological enhancements, and market entry. He seeks investors who share his commitment to sustainability and align with the vision of transforming the logistics industry.

In the next five years, Mober Technology Pte., Inc. plans to broaden its presence across Southeast Asia and introduce autonomous electric vehicles for select clients. They are also exploring opportunities in the transport sector to further revolutionise their operations and amplify sustainability impact.

"Staying focused is crucial. I’m confident that I’m in the right space at the right time, which fuels my motivation to keep moving forward. After nearly seven years running Mober, I am assured of our mission and the positive impact we're making on both the environment and the logistics industry. While I often relied on intuition, my advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to thoroughly validate their ideas. Conduct thorough research, test your concept in real-world scenarios, and gather data to inform your decisions. Combining intuition with solid validation is essential for increasing your chances of success." ~ Dennis Ng, CEO/Founder of Mober Technology Pte., Inc.

In summary, the shift towards electric vehicles among major retailers and delivery services reflects a comprehensive strategy that combines sustainability, cost savings, operational efficiency, and long-term planning. As these companies continue to embrace electric vehicles, they are not only advancing their own goals but also setting a precedent for the industry and contributing to a more sustainable future for logistics and transportation.

To ensure successful adoption, it's essential to tackle issues like range limitations, charging infrastructure, and workforce training. By capitalising on technological advancements and regulatory incentives, companies like Mober Technology Pte., Inc. can navigate these obstacles and unlock the full potential of electric trucks. As the industry evolves, logistics managers must stay informed about emerging trends and innovations to optimise their operations and meet sustainability goals. Transitioning to electric trucks represents not just a shift in transportation but a pivotal move towards a more sustainable and efficient future in supply chain and logistics planning.

For more information about what Mober Technology Pte., Inc. has to offer in their mission to decarbonise fleets super fast for businesses, click here to find out.

MOBER TECHNOLOGY PTE., INC. - 7/F Regus, 8 Rockwell Drive, Makati City 1200 Metro Manila