Electric vans are evolving. They're cleaner, smarter and more efficient than ever. But the new Morris JE brings something unique to the world of commercial EVs, a blend of timeless British design and modern electric innovation. Inspired by the much-loved 1949–61 Morris J-Type, the JE offers the charm of the past with the sustainability and performance today’s businesses demand.

The Big Little Van That Started It All (1949–1961)

Long before electric vans were even imagined, Morris produced one of the most iconic commercial vehicles Britain has ever seen, the Morris J-Type.

Built between 1949 and 1961, the J-Type became affectionately known as “the big little van” thanks to its incredible ability to carry loads far beyond what its compact size suggested. Its design was driven by a mantra that resonated with post-war businesses:

Bigger space, bigger profits.

The J-Type delivered exactly that. It had a ground-breaking load-carrying to footprint ratio that has remained virtually unsurpassed since the day it launched. This clever packaging came from several innovations that were decades ahead of their time:

• Forward-control layout : pushing the driver’s cab over the front wheels maximised cargo volume.

• Low, flat load floor: making loading easier and faster for drivers.

• Sliding side door: now a common feature, but revolutionary in an era of hinged doors.

These design choices made the J-Type the natural favourite for major British fleets. For years, it was the van of choice for, the Co-operative, John Lewis, Sainsburys, Hovis, the RAC and thousands more local traders, shopkeepers and delivery businesses across the UK

The J-Type wasn’t just a van, it was a work partner, a dependable tool, and a part of everyday British life. Its rounded, friendly styling earned it a place in the hearts of drivers nationwide, a symbol of business growth and entrepreneurship in the post World War two world.

And now, that spirit is returning, electrified.

The Morris JE

The new Morris JE brings everything people loved about the J-Type into a modern, sustainable package. 

It keeps the classic shape, iconic curves, the signature front end and the unmistakable silhouette. But underneath, it’s completely re-engineered: lightweight, efficient, zero-emission and built with today’s businesses in mind.

The Morris JE backs up its charm with proper commercial capability, and has been designed to compete with the ever popular Volkswagen ID.Buzz, providing:

• Up to 250 miles of electric range (WLTP)

• 1,000 kg payload 

• 6m³ of cargo volume (two Euro pallets)

• Rapid charging 20–30 minutes to 80% on a fast charger.

• Recycled carbon-fibre construction incredibly lightweight, improving efficiency and range.
  
  

Production

Orignally relaunched in 2019, with production due to begin in 2021, the Worcestershire-based Morris Commercial has recently confirmed it will open a state-of-the-art production facility at Bro Tathan in the Vale of Glamorgan, where the modern electric Morris JE will be built. The move marks a major boost for the UK automotive sector, reviving an iconic British brand while establishing Wales’s first dedicated electric vehicle manufacturing site and positioning the region as a growing force in the EV industry.

Availability

The Morris JE is expected to start from £61,000 when it goes on sale in mid-2026, with full specifications and pricing confirmed closer to launch. Each JE currently qualifies for the Government Plug-in Van grant, and UK businesses, public sector bodies and charities may also access additional funding to support EV charge point installation alongside other associated tax benefits and reduced whole life costs. Production is scheduled to begin in late 2026, and customers can registered their interest with Morris Commercial, with leasing options set to become available nearer the official launch date.