Toyota ready to roll out first all-electric SUV

The first electric SUV is almost here.

Toyota Motor’s 2012 RAV4 EV, which is a plug-in electric vehicle, will be available at select dealerships in California starting Sept. 24, the automaker says.

The RAV4 EV costs $49,800 but is eligible for a $7,500 federal tax credit. It also qualifies for a $2,500 rebate from California’s Clean Vehicle Rebate Project. You can lease the RAV4 EV for $599 per month for 36 months.

The RAV4 EV has an Environmental Protection Agency-estimated fuel economy of 78 MPGe in the city and 74 MPGe on the highway. MPGe is the the fuel-economy calculation for vehicles that run on electricity and alternative fuel.

The all-electric SUV will be available at 57 dealerships in California. Toyota hasn’t announced when the vehicle will be available in other markets.