The history of the J Type van goes all the way back to immediately after the Second World War, when it was produced at the same time as the Morris Minor. The aim was to get the UK back on its feet, by providing mass produced, reliable mobility for businesses and families.
The idea of the J Type ‘electric’ is not to cater for the masses, but to serve what is a niche market. Small companies that wish to stand out from the crowd and either have the van sign written in their colours etc. for display purposes and or use it for local deliveries or collections.
The company’s CEO headed up LDV vans so she has plenty of contacts in the van world and has several wealthy co-investors to make this a viable proposition. The company has four ‘pillars’ that it wishes to use to support the business, namely - Quality Design - Sustainability - Technology - Functionality. So whilst the van has a retro- look, it will be designed and manufactured using the latest technology with sustainability at the forefront.
It has a 1 tonne payload and will carry two Euro pallets, standard 8’X4’ sheets and a 6cu metre capacity. Uniquely built on an aluminium chassis with a carbon fibre body of which 70% is recycled carbon fibre and only 30% virgin Carbon fibre, where structural strength is required.
As an example of the latest design, the rear doors open in a unique way to allow easy loading without protruding into the pavement or passing traffic. Three battery sizes will be available giving it a WLTP range of 250 miles. A rapid charge will see the battery back up to 80% in a mere 30 minutes.
Production is expected to commence in late 2025 from a new manufacturing facility in the UK. It is anticipated that the van will cost in the region of £60k and the current aim is a first year production of 1,000 vans.
As the vehicle is clearly aimed at a niche market, it is anticipated that a substantial number will be exported and in the early days to countries who like us, drive on the left. It is surprising how many companies bought the J Type van to show to their customers that they were proud of their company and wished to support a UK manufacturer. Let’s hope that many companies are like minded, when the electric version becomes available.
In due course other versions of the J Type will be produced such as mini-bus and pick-up. These will, of course, have to be subjected to the usual crash tests and be fitted with all the correct safety technology to be allowed to enter both our market and those areas where it will be exported.
Peter McCree
