Redesigned Lexus LF-FC Concept Revealed at Tokyo Motor Show [News]

Lexus LF-LC Concept | Tokyo Motor Show
 Updated 10/30/2015: concept car designation corrected

The original Lexus LF-LC concept, which debuted at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show, was a 2+2 sports coupe with the intention of becoming a poor-man’s LFA and thought to have a hybrid powertrain. Revealed at the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show is a new concept designated as LF-FC that is powered by a hydrogen fuel cell system, significantly stretched, and re-envisioned of becoming Lexus’ future flagship sedan.

“Lexus wants to surprise and evoke emotion with its distinctive design and forward-thinking technology.  For us, it is more than just a car, and we should exceed conventional imagination.  The LF-FC expresses our progressive luxury and high-tech vision of a not so distant future,” said Tokuo Fukuichi, Lexus International President.

Lexus LF-LC Concept | Tokyo Motor Show

The redesigned body of the concept showcases the new styling theme of Lexus’ “L-finesse” design language. The signature “spindle” grille that is now familiar across the entire Lexus product line has evolved with a new mesh design with integration of floating daytime running lights (DRL). The roofline flows effortlessly to the tail where the taillights emphasize the broad haunches of the rear and carry the same floating theme as the DRL.

Lexus LF-LC Concept | Tokyo Motor Show

The cabin design is horizontally divided into two sections. The top is supposed to convey a sense of openness and allow the driver to focus on the road ahead without feeling confined. New technology inside the LF-FC feature gesture commands that don’t involve physical contact with a panel or controls. Hand gestures – when waved in the area where a small holographic image is placed on the center console – are used to make changes to the audio system and climate controls.

Embracing the fuel-cell technology used in the Toyota Mirai, the LF-FC concept sends power to the rear wheels and two in-wheel motors in the front. Weight distribution is optimized by placing the fuel cell stack at the rear, power control unit at the front, and hydrogen fuel tanks in a T-shape.

The Lexus LS 460 is a strong contender in the full-size luxury sedan segment. Enjoy this video of the Lexus LS 460 vs Jaguar XJL: Ike Gauntlet All-Wheel Drive Matchup.