Connect by Hertz, announced its delivery of the first Electric Vehicle, the Nissan LEAF, to the University of Arizona today. Connect by Hertz is the first car share company to bring production EVs to a University campus.

“As we continue to expand our Global EV initiative, we recognize the importance of bringing EVs to university campuses as well as urban centers,” said Mark P. Frissora, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, The Hertz Corporation. “Students around the globe understand the importance of environmental sustainability while adapting to the latest in technology. Supplying the University of Arizona with EVs allows students to bridge these two concepts together while reaping the benefits of using the Connect by Hertz car sharing program.”

The University of Arizona currently has 10 Connect by Hertz vehicles on its campus available to students and staff. The addition of the Nissan LEAF makes the University’s fleet more diverse with the inclusion of an EV.

The Nissan LEAF will be showcased at the University of Arizona’s Earth Day student event which will be held at the campus mall on Earth Day, April 22, 2011. Students will be able to learn about EVs and the Connect by Hertz car sharing program.

“We are happy to welcome Electric Vehicles into the Connect by Hertz car sharing fleet here at the University,” said David Heineking, Director of The University of Arizona Parking & Transportation Services. “Connect by Hertz has been a great asset to University students and staff, and having an electrical vehicle, the car of the future, today is something we’re all excited about, especially as it ties into our Earth Day initiatives.”

Connect by Hertz members pay a low, hourly rate, must be 18 years or older, and have a valid driver’s license with a good driving record for at least one year prior to joining. Students, faculty, and staff can take advantage of their membership on campus and also benefit from reciprocal membership at any Connect by Hertz city in the world, including New York, London, Berlin, Madrid, Melbourne, and Paris.

Connect by Hertz employs the latest in-car technology to provide safe and superior customer service. Upon enrolling in Connect by Hertz, members receive a smart chip enabled Connect card, which gives them keyless entry to any car in the fleet that the member reserves. In the car, a hands-free audio kit connects members to a Member Care Center representative should they have questions, need assistance or need to extend their rental. The in-car technology also enables Connect by Hertz to “communicate” with the vehicle, enabling representatives to unlock, engage and locate vehicles. The technologically savvy cars are also equipped with iPod connectivity and NeverLost(R) in-car navigation systems.