Darwin S.A.’s “rational choice” of investment in electric trucks
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11606/issn.1982-6486.rco.2025.216034Keywords:
Rational choice, Capital investment, Electric trucksAbstract
This teaching case is inspired by the decision of the Brazilian company Ambev to purchase electric trucks. The case invites an examination of the problem of investing in electric trucks from the perspective of the fictional company Darwin S.A., analyzing ’the conflict based on the choice of a capital investment project among three available alternatives. The involvement of the class in conflict resolution allows discussions about human nature and increases understanding of the limits of rationality in investment decisions. This experience seeks to increase the accuracy of decision-making models in the business environment, providing grounds for behavioral analysis of the choices of capital investment projects within organizations. The class follows the character Fernando during his investment decision-making process. The students analyze the available projects, leading to an understanding of the impact of uncertainty in evaluating capital investment options. Contrary to the selection criterion established at Darwin S.A.’, Fernando chose the project presented by Píton, a manufacturer with whom he negotiated the purchase of a fleet of electric trucks. The ambiguity of the case makes it possible to observe Fernando’s decision-making process and the reasoning behind his choice.
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