Motorists in the UK will be able to order the Nissan Leaf from September 1, securing a spot on the waiting list for the world’s first mass-produced electric car.

Nissan expects the first cars to be delivered to buyers in March 2011.

The Leaf has been developed from the outset to run only on electric, and features a motor developing more than 100bhp and a maximum speed of around 90mph.

When its lithium-ion batteries are full charged, it has a possible range of 100 miles, with no tailpipe emissions.

Customers will need to pay £23,990 to get hold of one, and that’s after the government electric car’s grant of £5,000 has been deducted. Batteries are included.

As you’d expect from a car costing more than £20k, the Leaf features air-con, satellite navigation and phone connectivity, as well as a rear parking camera.

Auto Trader has already reported the Leaf will also feature a Pedestrian Audio Warning System. Because electric cars are so quiet, there has been debate as to whether they are a threat to pedestrian safety.

The Nissan Leaf emits a sci-fi whine from rest to around 19mph, at which point its tyre roar is audible. In reverse it emits a sweeping high-low tone. In theory these sounds could be customisable, if Nissan permits it.

Customers can place a fully-refundable deposit of £257 on Nissan’s website, which secures them a ‘thorough test drive’ by December, at which point they will need to confirm their order.

By Andy Goodwin, senior web journalist

Full Nissan Leaf gallery: