It appears that Nissan has the Chevrolet Volt clearly in the crosshairs with the announcement that it will begin taking reservations for the 2011 Leaf, its new electric car, starting in spring 2010. However, critical details, such as pricing and the cost of a deposit, are still being finalized, said the automaker.

Nissan credits “strong initial demand” for the decision, saying that nearly 22,000 people in North America have contacted the company since the car’s unveiling in August. The five-passenger hatchback is expected to be priced between $28,000 and $35,000 before any government incentives. The Leaf is due to hit showrooms in late 2010.

Those who wish to place a reservation for the Leaf can visit a dedicated Web site.

The demand for the Leaf appears to be strongest in the western states. Nissan listed San Diego, Tucson, Seattle, Los Angeles, and Portland, Oregon, as areas of high demand for the car and noted that the cities “are among the first markets where Leaf will be available globally.” More