1948 Morris J-Type van reborn as an electric vehicle

The iconic 1948 Morris J-Type van has been resurrected, only this time it’s made from carbon fibre and is powered by an electric motor.

Built by Worcestershire-based Morris Commercial, which secured the rights to use the previously defunct marque’s name, the zero-emission Morris JE uses a lithium-ion battery powertrain.  It also features a modular chassis, which its manufacturer says will make it easily adaptable for future variants.

The first picture of a fully-operational prototype, reveals that the new JE features a retro exterior styling in-keeping with the original. However, Morris Commercial stresses that despite the 70-year-old looks, this is a complete redesign.

CEO and founder of Morris Commercial Dr Qu Li, said: “I am so pleased to reach this stage after over two years of intense development. The working engineering prototype has undergone extensive road testing and the end of 2019 is an amazing conclusion to the first phase of the project.

“We are committed to environmental sustainability and we are trailblazing a new approach to the production of appealing, fully electric commercial vehicles. We are very excited to unveil the JE to the public this autumn”.

Freight in the City is the must-attend event for anyone involved in making urban logistics cleaner, safer, quieter or more efficient. This free event is taking place at Alexandra Palace, London on 6 November. Click here for more information and to get your free tickets.