Weekly auto agenda: Nissan LEAF pre-order

(Nissan Motor Company)

The Nissan LEAF EV is available for US pre-ordering from April 20, for delivery later in the year. It is the first "mainstream" electric car to go on sale in the US. Auto China Beijing begins on April 23, with Chinese and international automakers set to reveal new models for the world's largest car market.

Nissan LEAF EV pre-order date (US)
April 20
US

In the US, customers will be able to preorder the LEAF EV from April 20 through the firm's website at www.nissanusa.com. The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the LEAF in the US is $32,780 (€24,450)
http://www.nissanusa.com

Interior Motives China
April 21 - 22
Beijing, China

Ahead of Auto China, this conference takes a look at the future of car interiors, both nationally and internationally. Design experts will identify current and future trends, as well as handing out the student China Design Awards for the "future designers of Chinese cars."
http://china.interiormotivesconference.com/

Auto China Beijing
April 23 - May 2
Beijing, China

China is the world's largest automotive market and 2,100 exhibitors are expected to visit Auto China in Beijing to display to over 680,000 visitors. The largest show in China last year was the biennial Auto Shanghai, which saw luxury unveilings from several manufacturers, a reflection of the region's growing global importance.
http://www.china-autoshow.com/

Automotive X Opens
April 29
Lansing, MI, USA

The shakedown stage of Automotive X begins at the Michigan International Speedway, Brooklyn on April 26. Up to 35 teams are expected to participate for a chance to win the $10m prize awarded to the world's most fuel efficient vehicle. The official opening and first public viewing of the competitors at Michigan's State Capital in Lansing, is on April 29.
http://www.progressiveautoxprize.org/

Gumball 3000 Rally Begins
May 1
London, United Kingdom

The 12th annual Gumball 3000 rally follows a 3,000 mile (4,828 km) route from London through Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Stockholm, Boston, Quebec City and Toronto before rounding off in New York seven long days and nights later.
http://www.gumball3000.com

Historic Grand Prix of Monaco
May 1-2
Monte Carlo, Monaco

Using the same route as the official Formula 1 track, the Historic Grand Prix offers a somewhat gentler race around the streets of Monaco. Multiple races are held from vehicles registered between 1947 and 1984.
http://www.acm.mc/gpmh/gpmh_main.php

Icelandic Saga Motor Rally
May 7 - May 17
Iceland, begins Reykjavik

The Icelandic Saga takes classic cars (pre-1983) on an endurance rally through some of the most stunning scenery in Iceland. Competitors participate in activities and challenges en route, as well as ten days driving across Iceland's incredible geography, including Mount Hekla - the "gateway to hell."
http://www.heroevents.eu

Monaco Grand Prix (Formula One)
May 16
Monte Carlo, Monaco

Arguably the most prestigious race in the motoring calendar, the Monaco Grand Prix pits Formula One drivers against the narrow roads and tight turns of Monte Carlo, as well as against each other. A win for Michael Schumacher will bring him level with the late Ayrton Senna, who holds the record for the most wins on the circuit.
http://www.grand-prix-monaco.com