Jason is considering engaging in part$-$time work as an Uber driver, but he requires an initial investment in a vehicle. Following thorough market research, he has identified two potential options:

Choice A: Purchase a pre$-$owned $2000$ Chevron car valued at $$3000.$ The intended usage is for $6$ months. Jason anticipates a monthly net income of $$650,$ factoring in fuel costs. The discount rate is projected $5\%$ per month due to depreciation and inflation.

Choice B: Acquire a new electric bicycle for $$2050.$ However, this alternative may result in reduced delivery speed. Similar to the car, Jason intends to use the bicycle for $6$ months and anticipates a monthly net income of $$450.$ The discount rate is projected $5\%$ per month due to depreciation and inflation.

Questions:

$1.$Determine the Net Present Value $($NPV$)$ and Internal Rate of Return $($IRR$)$ for both options using an Excel spreadsheet.

$2.$Based on the calculations, select the preferred option for Jason and provide reasoning for the choice.

$3.$Assess whether the two options are independent projects or mutually exclusive projects. Identify any potential conflicts between NPV and IRR, and determine the more reliable evaluation method. Include references where appropriate.

$*$Submission Requirements:

Submit an Excel file containing:

Worksheet $1$: Your personal information $($name and student ID$).$

Worksheet $2$: NPV and IRR calculations utilizing Excel functions $($addressing question $1).$

Worksheet $3$: Explanation of the rationale behind option selection $($question $2)$ and an analysis of project independence$/$exclusivity and NPV$-$IRR conflicts $($question $3).$ Include references as needed.