Lexus has unveiled a new flagship sedan concept at the Tokyo Motor Show. Called the LF-FC, the concept is likely a preview of Lexus’ next-generation LS sedan.
The most extreme example yet of Lexus’ “L-finesse” design language, the LF-FC features an aggressive front end that includes an exaggerated spindle grille and “floating” L-shaped daytime running lights. In profile the LF-FC takes the form of a four-door coupe thanks to a long hood and short decklid. 21-inch wheels with carbon fiber rims keep the concept visually planted to the ground.
The rear of the LF-LC is decidedly radical for the typically reserved Lexus brand, with oversized L-shaped taillights dominating the landscape. The LF-FC’s rear bumper also stands out thanks to pronounced sculpting.
The interior of the LF-FC features a wrap around cockpit with dual bucket seats in the rear. For a visual wow factor, the LF-FC uses front seats that appear to be floating in place.
Taking a page from the BMW 7-Series‘ playbook, the LF-FC concept uses gesture controls for the car’s audio and ventilation systems. Taking things a step further, the LF-FC uses a hologram to designate where the system can recognize hand gestures.
“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.
That not so distant future might also include a hydrogen fuel cell, which is used to motivate the LF-FC. In the concept’s application, a fuel cell is used to power the vehicle’s rear wheels while two in-wheel motors provide power at the front, giving the LF-FC all-wheel drive. Lexus engineers also designed the LF-FC with near perfect 50/50 weight distribution by placing the fuel cell stack in the rear and the power control unit at the front. Hydrogen fuel tanks are located in the middle of the concept in a T configuration.
Look for many of the LF-FC’s design cues to make the leap to production in the next LS, due out sometime in 2016 or 2017.
Live images by Ben Hsu.
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