Bro Tathan, Wales, December 01, 2025
Morris Commercial is launching production of the all-electric Morris JE van at its new Bro Tathan facility in Wales, beginning late 2025, with a market release planned for late 2026. This project aims to combine British automotive heritage with zero-emission technology, supported by Welsh Government funding and expected to create approximately 150 skilled jobs.
Production Launch and Strategic Importance
Manufacturing of the Morris JE, a revival of the classic 1950s Morris J-Type van, will commence in a newly established plant at Bro Tathan, St Athan, Wales. This marks the first electric vehicle manufacturing operation in Wales, backed by financial support through the Welsh Government’s Economy Futures Fund. The initiative is positioned to bolster local employment and develop the region’s automotive sector by creating around 150 skilled jobs.
Design Innovation and Sustainability Features
The Morris JE embraces a design that reflects the iconic styling of its 1950s predecessor, including the recognizable pear-shaped radiator grille. Its construction incorporates a lightweight aluminium chassis coupled with a carbon fibre monocoque body predominantly composed of recycled materials. This engineering approach reduces the vehicle’s weight by approximately 70% relative to traditional steel bodies, which increases payload capacity and driving range while minimizing CO2 emissions across the production and operational lifecycle.
Performance Specifications
Offering versatility, the van comes with three battery options—40, 60, and 80 kWh. The largest battery variant supports a zero-emission driving range of up to 250 miles (400 kilometers). Charging technology enables the battery to reach 80% capacity in under 30 minutes, facilitating operational efficiency for commercial users. The Morris JE accommodates up to 6 cubic meters of cargo volume and carries a payload capacity of one tonne, making it a competitive alternative to current electric commercial vehicles such as the Ford Transit Custom, Vauxhall Vivaro, and Volkswagen ID Buzz.
Market Position and Heritage
By reintroducing a culturally significant model with modern electric drivetrain technology, Morris Commercial aims to meet increasing demand for zero-emission commercial vehicles in the UK. While electric vans still constitute a modest segment of the market, the Morris JE offers a unique blend of practicality and heritage, potentially appealing to firms pursuing sustainability mandates alongside British brand recognition.
Contextual Market and Industry Impact
The launch of the Morris JE aligns with growing regulatory and commercial priorities toward greener transportation solutions. The project contributes to the broader objective of expanding the electric vehicle ecosystem within the UK, enhancing air quality, and delivering decarbonization benefits in the commercial transport sector. Additionally, the establishment of an EV production facility in Wales represents a strategic investment in regional industrial diversification and skills development.
As the UK transitions toward sustainable mobility, the introduction of the Morris JE demonstrates how historical automotive icons can be effectively repurposed using advanced materials and technologies. This fusion of tradition and innovation could play a pivotal role in accelerating the adoption of electric commercial fleets and reinforcing regional manufacturing capabilities.