Morris Commercial unveils new J-type inspired electric van

Morris Commercial, the UK-based automotive engineering firm, has unveiled its new electric van. Production of the JE light commercial vehicle is due to start in 2021 with prices expected to be around £60,000. Expect a range of around 200 miles.

Dr Qu Li, CEO and founder of Morris Commercial, said, ‘What we have created is a beautiful, retro design that sits upon a cutting-edge, modular BEV platform, delivering practicality and functionality to compete with the best in its segment.’

Underneath the JE’s classic looks is a state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery powertrain. The van also uses a modular chassis design and carbon-fibre body construction.

Its styling is a take on the original Morris J-type van that appeared in 1948 and was often converted to a pick-up truck, ice-cream van and milk float. Many were also used by the Post Office as the cricial post-war van got Britain's small businesses moving again.

The original J-type had a distinctive pear-shaped grille, split-windscreen and swooping roofline – traits which have inspired the JE.

At squarely at small boutique businesses that crave individuality, as well as larger corporate event fleets the company clearly hopes to give the Citroen H-van a run for its money.