Morris Commercial, a UK-based automotive engineering and manufacturing start-up company recently unveiled a new retro 1940s style electric van. The company has plans to start production of the vehicle in 2021. The new battery-electric light commercial vehicle (LCV) is called the Morris JE and made its debut at the Design Museum in London.
The Morris JE will be the first production model for the company since the 1960s and was made possible thanks to private investors from the UK and Europe. The price tag for the van will be approximately £60,000, it has a 200-mile range with the ability to do a fast charge of 80% in just 30 minutes.
It’s slated to have a state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery powertrain, carbon-fiber body construction, and feature a modular chassis with a 1000kg payload. The Morris JE will have a 2.5-ton gross weight, making it fall within the lightweight commercial category. That combined with the high payload will make it an attractive choice for small and large businesses alike.
Dr. Qu Li, CEO, and Founder of Morris Commercial said:
“It is a delight to unveil the new Morris JE to the world and for us to show what we have been working so hard to achieve. From the outset, our vision was to bring a new concept to the LCV market, not just in terms of the battery-electric powertrain, but also to introduce a timeless design that takes the aesthetics and appeal of such a vehicle to a whole new level. 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.”
Morris Commercial has said they will never make a vehicle with an internal combustion engine, they are committed to electric and zero emissions. Inspired by the company’s iconic Morris-J type van the engineering will take place at a facility in Worcestershire and the production at an undisclosed location.
One thing is certain this will not only be the most sustainable commercial vehicle it will also be the coolest looking one on the streets. Be on the lookout you may even see Austin Powers driving one around town.
