Nissan takes orders for LEAF in Ohio, Pa.

Staff report

Nissan North America Inc. announced Wednesday it has begun taking orders from the public for the all-electric 2012 Nissan LEAF in 30 states, including Ohio and Pennsylvania.

Here in the Mahoning Valley, Jason Allison, sales manager at Boardman Nissan, 7809 Market St., says he can special order four LEAFs for customers this month.

Customers can choose between the SV and SL models. Standard models won’t be available for sale, Allison said. Customers will need to special order the vehicle.

Allison said those who are interested in test-driving the electric car will have the opportunity at Boardman Nissan, hopefully by Feb. 1, he said.

Boardman Nissan will have the demo car for six months after its arrival.

“I’m expecting a lot of feedback as far as people looking for an economic car,” he said.

The LEAF has a starting price of $35,200 and gets about 90 miles per gallon. Those who purchase a LEAF can receive up to a $7,500 federal tax credit. If leased, the difference will be deducted from the leasing price, Allison added.

Deliveries for the 2012 model will take place beginning in the spring.

“Nissan LEAFs have been on the U.S. roads for one year now, and thousands of drivers have become living proof that a 100-percent electric, zero-emissions vehicle fulfills the daily needs of drivers from all walks of life,” said Brian Carolin, senior vice president of sales and marketing for Nissan North America.