ANN ARBOR, Mich., May 5, 2010 -- Nissan has selected Hawaii as one of the initial launch markets for all-new, all-electric Nissan LEAF, with deliveries expected to begin in early 2011.

“We appreciate Nissan’s recognition of Hawaii as a global model for electric vehicles and a leader in clean energy,” said Hawaii Governor Linda Lingle. “The introduction of the Nissan LEAF electric vehicle will build on Hawaii’s progress to end our state’s over-reliance on imported fossil fuels and increase our energy security.”

Nissan and the State of Hawaii have been working together to create a partnership promoting the development of an electric vehicle network.

"Nissan is looking forward to bringing the all-electric Nissan LEAF to the people of Hawaii," said Brian Carolin, senior vice president, sales and marketing, Nissan North America. "Through its work in fostering zero-emissions mobility throughout the state, Hawaii is demonstrating that it is EV-ready. These efforts, along with strong consumer interest, led us to name Hawaii as an early launch market for the Nissan LEAF."

Theodore Liu – who is Hawaii’s Director, State Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism -- said that, as part of the Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative’s goal of moving towards 70 percent clean energy by 2030, he believes that the introduction and expansion of electric vehicles will give consumers more choices and reduce Hawaii’s overdependence on fossil fuels.

Nissan began accepting reservations to purchase Nissan LEAF this month. In the U.S., more than 8,200 people have reserved a Nissan LEAF.

Nissan has already announced that the LEAF will have a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $32,780. A federal tax credit of $7,500 will be available. The lease price for the Nissan LEAF begins at $349 per month.

“I’m looking forward to these vehicles being available,” said Ted Peck, Energy Program Administrator, Hawaii State Energy Office. “We’ve been transforming our buildings to be cleaner, more efficient and renewable. Now we can transform our cars. This is good for consumers and good for our environment.”