Thursday Dec 26, 2024
Thursday Dec 26, 2024
Tuesday, 27 February 2024 00:02 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
An agreement for the handing over of the e-Shift electric three-wheelers was signed by CDB Executive Director/Deputy CEO Damith Tennakoon and Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle GM Roberto Simone. CDB Executive Director Sasindra Munasinghe, Senior General Manager Hasitha Dassanayake and General Manager Isanka Kotigala as well as VEGA Director Kusal Subasinghe and Electronics Director Kasun Siriwardhana with the teams from CDB, VEGA and Anantara were also present
In a collaboration aimed at boosting sustainable mobility solutions in the tourism industry in Sri Lanka, Citizens Development Business Finance PLC (CDB) and VEGA Innovations partnered Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort to use e-Shift electric three wheelers in its daily operations.
Seven electric three-wheelers were handed over to Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle in this initiative which aims to boost the country’s tourism industry while promoting a comprehensive ecosystem for EVs. The handover, conducted at the resort’s premises, marks the first foray into a private sector partnership that inspires transformation from fossil fuel vehicles into EVs.
e-Shift which is a collaboration between CDB and its technology partner VEGA Innovations was founded and designed to accelerate sustainable mobility solutions, prompting a paradigm shift in the mindset of the transport industry. Sri Lanka’s transport industry is primarily dependent on fossil fuel and this foray of transforming 1.5 million three-wheelers which is one of Sri Lanka’s primary modes of transport into electric three-wheelers is an imperative at this time. Aligned with CDB’s Sustainability Agenda, the use of EVs in Sri Lanka will in the long-term reduce the impact on climate emergency and contribute towards the Company’s journey towards net zero.
CDB Managing Director and CEO Mahesh Nanayakkara stated that this marks the first time both CDB and VEGA Innovations have embarked on partnering the corporate sector to move into sustainable mobility solutions.
“In our journey of empowering a smart and sustainable Sri Lanka, this initiative by Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle has set a good example not just for the tourism industry but also for other industries to echo the move. As a responsible corporate steward committed to knowledge sharing, just as we have set the path towards sustainable mobility solutions, it is imperative that other corporate stewards set the lead in promoting alternative energy to move the country towards a green economy,” he added.
Having launched the collaborative e-Shift concept centre in September last year with CDB, VEGA Innovations Chairman/CEO Dr. Harsha Subasinghe reiterated that the three-wheeler industry is being revolutionised, while electrifying the future - one vehicle at a time.
“At the forefront of innovation, our commitment is more than just creating solutions—it’s about forging a path towards a greener, healthier planet. With our innovative electric vehicle solutions, we invite corporates in Sri Lanka to unite with us in this eco-friendly revolution. Together, let’s inspire sustainability, redefine transportation, and make a lasting impact for generations to come,” Subasinghe added.
Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort General Manager Roberto Simone said: “We believe in continuous innovation to drive sustainability and are proud to pioneer this innovative initiative in the hospitality industry of Sri Lanka with the rentals of these first ever e-Shift electric three-wheelers.”
