Lexus LF-FC Concept illustrates brand's future

Lexus has unveiled its LF-FC Concept at the Tokyo Motor Show, a car that "offers a peek into the design and technology direction of the brand’s future flagship sedan."

Longer, wider and lower than its LS sedan, the largest in the brand's current lineup, the Lexus LF-FC features new styling that still embodies the so-called "L-finesse" design philosophy, while sporting a fuel cell power system.

"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," Lexus International president Tokuo Fukuichi said in a statement.

According to the brand, the LF-FC's fuel cell system powers the rear wheels while also sending power to two in-wheel motors up front.

The innovative drive system, according to Lexus, allows for "precise torque distribution" between the front and rear wheels, giving the full-size sedan exceptional dynamic handling and superior road stability.

"The strategic placement of the fuel-cell stack at the rear of the vehicle, power control unit at the front and T-formation configured hydrogen fuel tanks result in front and rear weight distribution optimal for a sporty sedan," it said.

Inside, the Lexus LF-FC "has been designed to wrap its occupants in a comfortable yet futuristic environment, while providing the driver with a highly-functional cockpit."

New technology inside includes an advanced human machine interface that can be operated by simple hand gestures, without the need to touch a panel or controls.