Wallace and Gromit go electric: Morris JE is the retro van the future deserves

Morris Commercial has unveiled a new pre-production version of its JE — a retro-styled electric van with a recycled carbon-fibre monocoque, aluminium chassis and up to 483 km of range.

Britain's Morris Commercial has moved its JE electric van one step closer to production. The company has shown a new pre-production version of the model, inspired by the Morris J-Type of the 1950s. From the outside it looks almost like a postcard from post-war Britain: a rounded nose, tall body, retro proportions and soft lines. Technically, though, the JE is a thoroughly modern electric vehicle.

The body shape isn't the only thing that stands out. Morris claims the JE uses a recycled carbon-fibre monocoque and an aluminium chassis. That's an unusual approach for a commercial van: this segment usually counts every penny of build cost rather than splurging on expensive composites. On the other hand, the light structure should help with range and payload.

According to Auto Express, pilot production of the JE is due to begin in 2027. The claimed range is up to 483 km. Other quoted figures include a payload of up to 1,000 kg, around 6 cubic metres of cargo volume, and fast charging from 20 to 80% in roughly 30 minutes.

That said, the Morris JE isn't trying to be a direct replacement for an ordinary Ford Transit or Volkswagen Transporter. It's a niche van for companies that care about style, image and recognisability. Think premium retail, coffee shops, hotels, boutique delivery services, artisanal projects and brands that need advertising on wheels.