Chinese Backing Powers New Morris Commercials JE Electric Van

The Morris name is returning to UK roads, with the newly formed Morris Commercial unveiling a retro-inspired, all-electric van called the JE.

Shown for the first time at London’s Design Museum, the JE revives the look of the classic 1950s Morris J-Type but pairs it with a lightweight electric drivetrain and modern construction techniques.

If the Chinese-backed company meets its targets, production will begin in late 2021.

Retro Looks, Modern Structure

While the JE borrows its silhouette and distinctive pear-shaped grille from the original J-Type, this is far from a continuation model. Instead, Morris Commercial has built the van around a modular aluminium skateboard chassis and a carbon-fibre composite body — an unusual approach in the light-commercial market, where steel and aluminium panels dominate.

The result, the company says, is one of the lightest LCVs in the segment. A 60kWh lithium-ion battery sits beneath the floor and is expected to provide a 200-mile range — more than any other electric van on sale now — with rapid charging from 0–80% in around 30 minutes.

Payload and Practicality

The JE promises exceptional carrying capacity for its weight, with Morris saying the van will offer a payload of more than 1 tonne, 5.5m3 of cargo volume, and room for two Euro pallets through the rear barn doors.

That places it closer, at least on paper, to the smaller end of the 3.5-tonne market, but in a lighter and more compact package.

A Premium Proposition

Morris Commercial is positioning the JE as a premium, design-led commercial vehicle aimed at small businesses, boutique brands, and hospitality operators seeking something more distinctive than a typical panel van.

The company suggests there’s already been strong interest from firms wanting a mobile marketing or retail platform, and the pastel colour palette and rounded styling echo that aim.

The project is being led by CEO Dr Qu Li, who played a significant role in the sale of Rover to Chinese behemoth Nanjing Automotive. Morris says that Li has assembled a UK-based engineering team with sector experience.

The modular chassis is designed to support future derivatives, with pickup and minibus versions already under development.

The JE will be built entirely in the UK, with design, engineering and manufacturing all based here, says Morris.

Morris JE Pricing and Availability

Morris Commercial expects to start production in 2021, with a small number of early build slots available. The first customer vans are due in late 2021, with more details on final specifications expected throughout 2020.

Morris is talking about a £60,000 price tag, which is more than double the cost of a Nissan e-NV200, although the new company promises greater payload and electric range.